Pune: MNS Activist Demands Immediate Action To Address Chandni Chowk Infrastructure Flaws
Pune: MNS Activist Demands Immediate Action To Address Chandni Chowk Infrastructure Flaws
Pune, January 4, 2025: Prashant Kanojia, Chief Organizer of Maharashtra Navnirman Vidyarthi Sena (MNS), has written a letter to Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, highlighting several critical flaws in the recently inaugurated Chandni Chowk flyover in Pune. Despite an investment of ₹865 crore, the letter points out numerous planning and infrastructure issues that could pose safety and convenience challenges for citizens.
Key concerns raised in the letter include:
1. Lack of Public Toilets: Insufficient sanitation facilities for men and women.
2. Dangerous Turns: A 90-degree turn near Up and Above Hotel towards Paud needs immediate correction to prevent accidents.
3. Absence of Designated Bus Stops: No proper facilities for public buses, ST buses, and taxis.
4. Pedestrian Accessibility Issues: Absence of sidewalks and underground tunnels for safe crossing.
5. Directional Signboards: Lack of proper signboards to guide commuters.
6. Encroachment Control: Illegal food stalls and hoardings have marred the area’s aesthetics and functionality.
7. Blind Spots and Accident Zones: Specific spots, such as Bhugaon to Bavdhan, are flagged as accident-prone due to poor visibility.
8. Flood Risks: Ignoring drainage planning during construction could lead to future waterlogging.
9. Emergency Services: Lack of designated areas for ambulances, towing vans, and accident assistance centers.
10. Parking Facilities: No provision for commuters to park their vehicles before using public transport.
11. Fire Safety: The Ved Bhavan fire station near the highway is yet to become operational.
The letter also emphasizes compensating local businesses for losses incurred due to altered road heights, which have affected access to their establishments.
Prashant Kanojia has warned that if these issues are not addressed promptly, ManaviSe (MNS) will organize a large-scale protest to safeguard the interests of citizens. The responsibility for any fallout, he states, will lie solely with the administration.
