A stretch of road connecting Seminary Hills to Telangkhedi in Nagpur has been excavated for pipeline work, creating a hazardous situation for commuters. The dug-up area near the Mother Dairy plant and NCC Group headquarters features a deep trench cutting across the road, with inadequate barricading and poor visibility after sunset, locals told TOI.
Insufficient Safety Measures
Authorities have placed partial barricades on one side, allowing a narrow passage for two-wheelers. However, the opposite side approaching from CP Club remains completely exposed. The absence of proper barricading, warning signage, and reflectors has left motorists vulnerable, especially in the evening when non-functional streetlights plunge the area into darkness.
Traffic Disruptions and Risks
A visit by TOI revealed barely enough space for a two-wheeler to pass. Four-wheelers cannot navigate the road and are forced to take U-turns, causing traffic congestion and confusion. In one alarming instance, an ambulance had to turn back due to the dug-up road. The ambulance driver said, "Had it been an emergency, we would have lost crucial time changing the route," highlighting the potential risks.
Residents and regular commuters expressed anger over the lack of planning and safety measures. Deepak Korgaonkar, a resident, stated, "There are no warning boards or lights. At night, the trench is almost invisible. Someone is bound to fall into it." Another commuter added, "This road is frequently used, and yet the work has been left incomplete and unsafe. Shockingly, no proper precautions have been taken."
Impact on Traffic Flow
The trench, dug for laying a water pipeline, has effectively split the road, forcing vehicles into risky maneuvers. Two-wheelers squeeze through narrow gaps, while larger vehicles must turn around, disrupting traffic flow.
Official Response
Rajkumar Meshram, assistant commissioner of the Dharampeth zone, acknowledged the issue and assured prompt action. "The road has been dug up for pipeline work. We were not informed about the lack of barricading and signage on one side. I will immediately deploy officials to the spot to ensure necessary safety measures are implemented," he said.
