Over four accidents in a month, traffic chaos mounts; Akashvani chowk to be closed again

Official notification soon, confirm senior police officials

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

After more than four major accidents within weeks and persistent traffic congestion, traffic police have decided to restore the earlier system and close Akashvani Chowk again, 54 days after it was reopened during the municipal elections.

The chowk, reopened on January 9 after removal of barricades, had triggered allegations of political pressure. A public notice was later issued on January 21 inviting objections and suggestions. Police had stated the move was temporary to facilitate quick U-turns for political leaders and officials during the poll period. However, with four major and around seven minor accidents reported, along with daily traffic snarls on the already narrow Jalna Road, authorities have reinstated the previous arrangement. Vehicles will not be allowed to cross the chowk from 9 am to 9 pm. The closure model, first experimented with in 2016 along with Amarpreet Chowk, had earlier eased congestion between Cidco Chowk and Kranti Chowk. Despite opposition from traders and residents, police had defended the decision on traffic management grounds.

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Credit politics during elections

Akashvani Chowk was reopened on January 9 during the civic polls after a letter from Guardian Minister Sanjay Shirsat, triggering allegations of political pressure. With no formal notification issued, the Election Commission sought clarification. On January 21, police termed the move temporary and invited objections.

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Rising accidents, public and police frustrated

Following the reopening, four major and several minor accidents were reported, along with daily traffic snarls. Citing safety and congestion concerns, authorities have decided to close the chowk again. Official orders are awaited.