Residents of Sahnewal have alleged that the underpass of the Sahnewal railway overbridge, originally constructed to ease traffic flow, has become a hotspot for illegal parking. According to locals, vehicles are left at the underpass for extended periods—some even permanently—despite clear no-parking warnings posted at the site. The situation has forced commuters to take long detours around the market, causing significant inconvenience and frustration.
Blocked Passage and Daily Struggles
The illegally parked vehicles obstruct the narrow passage under the bridge, making it difficult for commuters to cross. Rajiv Kapila, a local shopkeeper, highlighted the severe problems faced by vehicles supplying goods to the market. “There is no space to cross under the bridge. Is this underpass a permanent shelter for four wheelers? Every day, authorities watch the troubles we face while crossing from under the bridge, but do not take any action to clear the passage,” he lamented. His comments underscore the daily struggles of residents and business owners who rely on the underpass for efficient travel.
Residents Describe the Situation as 'Hellish'
Another resident, Rinku, described the situation as “hellish,” noting that commuters are already fed up with the chaos at Sahnewal Chowk, where heavy vehicles have returned. “Once they manage to cross it, they find the underpass blocked. One can imagine the state of mind of a person after long hours in traffic,” he said. Visakha Singh, another local, added that the narrow space makes it impossible to turn back, and called for proper signage and regular monitoring by traffic police. “A constable should be deputed during the peak hours,” Singh suggested.
Traffic Police Respond with Tougher Measures
Iqbal Singh, the traffic in-charge, acknowledged that most of the parked vehicles belong to shopkeepers who arrive early in the morning and leave late at night. “We have vacated the underpass several times, but things go back to the way they were in no time. Now, we are going to act tougher. Illegal parking will be stopped and I will look into the matter. Fines will be slapped for any and all violations,” he stated. This commitment to stricter enforcement signals a potential shift in addressing the persistent issue, though residents remain skeptical given previous inaction.
Impact on Daily Life and Local Economy
The illegal parking not only disrupts daily commutes but also affects local businesses by hindering the movement of goods and customers. The underpass, intended to provide a smooth passage, has instead become a bottleneck that exacerbates traffic congestion in the area. With the market nearby, the detours add significant time and fuel costs for commuters and delivery vehicles. Residents hope that the traffic police’s renewed vow to impose fines and clear the underpass will bring lasting relief, but they stress the need for sustained monitoring and infrastructure improvements, such as better signage and designated parking areas for shopkeepers.
