Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
City police unexpectedly removed the barricade at Akashvani Chowk amid rising municipal election activity on Friday, at 12 pm . From 1 pm to 8 pm, traffic snarled from Seven Hill to Mondha Nakya, causing chaos for thousands of commuters. Narrow roads and encroachments on Jalna Road have made traffic management increasingly difficult.
Historical Context: In 2016, the Police Commissioner first experimented with closing Akashvani and Amarpreet Chowks for three hours during peak times, later extending full-time closures from 9 am to 9 pm. While some traders and residents opposed this, police maintained the closure.
Political Pressure: With elections nearing, candidates met Guardian Minister Sanjay Shirsat requesting the chowk be opened. A letter from Shirsat to the Police Commissioner, circulated on social media, is believed to have influenced the police decision.
Race for Credit and Celebrations: Following the opening, Ward 21 candidates joined the electoral fray. Ministerial visits sparked celebratory cheers and firecrackers, worsening congestion.
Traffic Management Challenges:
• Thousands of vehicles clogged Jalna Road from 1 PM to late night.
• 50-second signal intervals were introduced from CIDCO to Kranti Chowk.
• After 6.30 pm, 1-minute signals were used near Trimurti Chowk and Mahesh Nagar.
• 6–8 traffic personnel were deployed per chowk during peak times.
Lack of Official Notification: The chowk was opened without formal notice, fueling speculation of a temporary measure for elections.
Akashvani Chowk – A History of Experiments:
• May 6, 2016: 3-hour morning and evening closure
• May 19, 2016: Full-time closure
• Aug 1, 2016: Citizens removed barricade; police reinstated it
• Nov 21, 2020: Partial closure; Nov 29, 2020: Full closure
• Nov 13, 2022 & June 19, 2024: Protests for opening
• June 10, 2023 & Oct 24, 2024: Temporary removal following local protests/accidents
Way Forward: The chowk was reopened responding to citizens’ requests. Police Commissioner Praveen Pawar stated that proper planning will be undertaken to avoid future congestion.