Ghaziabad Residents Raise Alarm Over RTO Area Encroachment and Traffic Gridlock
In Ghaziabad, the area surrounding the regional transport office (RTO) has become a hotspot for severe traffic congestion and civic disturbances, largely due to rampant encroachment on footpaths and green belts. Local residents have formally petitioned the district magistrate and municipal commissioner, highlighting how the lack of designated parking facilities for RTO applicants forces vehicles to park haphazardly on roadsides, exacerbating the chaos.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Pedestrian Safety and Environmental Damage
Rakesh Aggarwal, a resident of Vasundhara, emphasized that "encroachment and haphazard parking create persistent congestion in the area," making daily commutes a nightmare. Similarly, Harvinder Singh from Indirapuram pointed out that these encroachments not only obstruct pedestrian movement but also cause significant damage to the green belts, which are vital for urban greenery and environmental balance.
Additional Issues with Unregulated Services Near RTO
Singh also brought attention to mobile photocopying shops operating near the RTO office, alleging that they charge exorbitant fees to visitors. With few alternative market facilities nearby, applicants are often left with no choice but to pay these high rates, adding to their inconvenience.
Calls for Immediate Action and Official Response
In response to these growing problems, residents like Sunil Vaidya have urged authorities to take swift measures. Vaidya, who has written to the DM and municipal commissioner, stated, "We need an organised parking facility for visitors and a clearing of the encroachments." The letter included photographic evidence of the current conditions and a request for an official inspection to assess the situation firsthand.
Vaidya further expressed hope for a prompt response, saying, "We hope for a swift response to restore order and accessibility around the RTO office and urge the authorities to prioritise the issue in the interest of public welfare." As of now, officials have not yet responded to these appeals, leaving residents awaiting action to alleviate the ongoing issues.
