Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's monthly Janata Darbar once again served as a vital forum for citizens to voice their everyday civic concerns, with residents from across Nagpur and neighboring districts gathering to seek resolution for long-standing issues. The event highlighted persistent problems in urban infrastructure and governance, drawing attention from diverse communities.
Street Lighting Emerges as a Major Safety Concern
A significant portion of the complaints centered on non-functional or inadequate streetlights, particularly in residential areas. Residents of Samta Nagar emphasized that poorly lit roads and internal lanes have escalated into a serious safety issue, especially affecting women, senior citizens, and daily commuters. They called for immediate repairs and the installation of additional streetlights to enhance visibility, prevent accidents, and curb criminal activities.
Road Infrastructure Grievances Highlight Quality Issues
Road infrastructure featured prominently among the grievances raised at the Janata Darbar. Residents from Bhim Nagar and Bhilgaon in North Nagpur reported that recently laid roads were uneven and had begun deteriorating rapidly. They alleged poor quality of work and a lack of supervision during construction, with some demanding repaving of damaged stretches and others stressing the need for stricter quality control, better planning, and accountability to ensure durable and safe roads.
Land Ownership Disputes Surface at the Forum
Land ownership disputes also came to the forefront during the event. Zulekha Sheikh, a resident of Mominpura, alleged that despite her family residing on the land for over five decades with valid documentation, the Nagpur Improvement Trust is refusing to recognize their ownership. She clarified that residents are not opposing development projects but are seeking fair compensation, damages, or alternative land if their properties are required for public purposes.
Inclusive Participation from Vulnerable Groups
The Janata Darbar saw active participation from senior citizens and Divyang persons, who submitted representations seeking assistance and smoother access to government welfare schemes. Gadkari instructed officials to extend cooperation in matters related to schemes such as Shravanbal and Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana. Divyang representatives raised demands for artificial limbs and support under various government initiatives.
Community Organizations Seek Government Support
Representatives from several social, religious, and community organizations approached Gadkari with issues related to funding, space allocation, and statutory permissions. Many sought government support for community welfare activities and infrastructure needs, with Gadkari listening in detail and directing concerned departments to examine the issues and take appropriate action.
Officials from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation, district collector's office, Nagpur Improvement Trust, health department, and other agencies were present at the Janata Darbar, facilitating on-the-spot coordination and follow-up to address the grievances efficiently.
