Underpass opens, but chaos ensues

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

After a long wait of one and a half years, the much-anticipated Shivajinagar underpass finally opened for traffic on Saturday, bringing relief to thousands of commuters. The underpass, located near the Shivajinagar railway crossing, aims to ease congestion and eliminate the need for detours via the Sangramnagar flyover. However, what was supposed to be a smooth transition turned into a nightmare for motorists, as an ill-planned inauguration ceremony setup on the road itself caused massive traffic snarls.

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A grand inauguration turns chaotic

Guardian Minister Sanjay Shirsat officially opened the underpass in the presence of MP Sandipan Bhumare, former Mayor Nandkumar Ghodele, Vikas Jain, and SHS district chief Rajendra Janjal. Excited locals celebrated by bursting firecrackers, and many chose to walk through the underpass to witness its completion. However, by 11.30 am, as MP Bhumre’s vehicle became the first to pass through, congestion had already started building up.

The root cause of the chaos was a pandal (tent) erected right next to the Deolai-Shivajinagar road for the inauguration ceremony. The unexpected road blockage forced vehicles into long queues, and authorities had to scramble to dismantle the tent and clear the congestion.

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Unfinished work raises safety concerns

While the underpass is operational, several critical works remain incomplete. Light poles have been installed, but lamps are yet to be fitted, leaving the passage dark and risky at night. Additionally, the underpass features steep slopes on both sides, increasing vehicle speeds and posing safety hazards. Concerned citizens have urged authorities to implement immediate safety measures to prevent accidents.

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Activists condemn exclusion from ceremony

"We fought for this underpass for years, yet when the time came to celebrate its completion, we were completely ignored. This is unfair and disappointing."-----------------( Badrinath Thorat, President, Satara-Deolai Janseva Action Committee)

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Underpass advocates left out of inauguration

"Despite years of petitions, protests and legal battles, we were not formally invited to the inauguration. The neglect of our contributions is unacceptable."--------------( Advocate Vaishali Kadu)

Photo Highlights:

1. Guardian Minister Sanjay Shirsat cutting the ribbon at the underpass inauguration. (from left) former Mayor Nandkumar Ghodele, MP Sandipan Bhumare, and Shinde Sena District Chief Rajendra Janjal present.

2. Vehicles finally passing through the underpass after a wait of one and a half years.

3. Citizens reacting to the opening, expressing both joy and concerns.