With the ‘Hind Di Chadar’ programme set to take place later this week, residents have voiced serious concerns about safety arrangements along the road linking Sector 34 in Kharghar to Taloja through the Quick Response Team route. According to locals, several streetlights along this stretch are not functioning, leaving large portions of the road poorly illuminated at night, reported the Free Press Journal. The issue has triggered anxiety among daily commuters and pedestrians who regularly use the route. Many believe that with a major public gathering expected in the coming days, ensuring proper lighting and security infrastructure should be treated as a priority by the concerned authorities.
The upcoming event is being organised to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur and will be held at the Corporate Park ground in Sector 29, Kharghar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with other prominent dignitaries, is expected to attend this event, reported the Free Press Journal. In anticipation of a turnout exceeding five lakh devotees from different parts of the state, civic officials have accelerated infrastructure improvements. Road repair work, beautification efforts and extensive cleanliness campaigns are currently underway to prepare the venue and surrounding areas for the large influx of visitors.
Despite these preparations, residents claim that streetlights beneath the metro bridge and along the road stretching from Sector 34 towards Taloja have remained out of order for several days, reported the Free Press Journal. The lack of illumination has compelled pedestrians to navigate the area in near darkness after sunset. Locals say the situation poses significant risks, particularly for individuals returning home late in the evening. They argue that while authorities are focusing on event arrangements, basic public safety measures such as functional lighting should not be neglected, especially on routes expected to witness increased movement during the programme, reported the Free Press Journal.
Concerns have intensified over a bus stop situated near the QRT point, which is frequently accessed by women and children during late hours, the report added. Residents have questioned whether adequate precautions have been taken to prevent mishaps in the absence of proper lighting. They have asked who would bear responsibility if any unfortunate incident were to occur due to the prevailing darkness. With the programme scheduled for February 28 and March 1, locals have urged the civic administration to urgently restore the faulty streetlights to ensure the safety and security of citizens ahead of the high-profile gathering.