Major Public Outcry in Chandigarh Over Road Closure Decision
Chandigarh witnessed significant public unrest on Friday as residents, elected councillors, and leaders from various political parties gathered to protest the administration's controversial decision to block the road connecting Sectors 33 and 45. The protest, which included a sit-in demonstration, forced administrative officials to halt work on installing a divider at the crucial traffic light crossing.
Political Leaders Join Residents in Opposition
Councillors Prem Lata and Kanwar Rana were prominently present during the protest, alongside a substantial gathering of residents from Burail village. When an administrative team arrived at the site accompanied by police personnel and machinery, they were met with immediate opposition from the assembled crowd, who began a sit-in protest that effectively stopped the installation work.
Aam Aadmi Party leader Shabad Rathi strongly criticized the decision, stating that "the closure of this road would cause serious inconvenience to thousands of residents who depend on this route daily." He emphasized that the road serves as a vital connection for schoolchildren, daily commuters from nearby sectors, and patients traveling to the government hospital in Sector 32.
Administrative Decision Based on Court Directive
According to officials, the administration's move stemmed from a legal dispute that reached the Punjab and Haryana High Court. A resident of Sector 33 had approached the court seeking closure of the road, prompting the administration to comply with judicial directions. However, protesters argued forcefully that "the convenience of one individual cannot override the daily needs and rights of thousands of commuters."
Chandigarh Congress president HS Lucky expressed dismay at the decision-making process, noting it was unfortunate that such a significant action was taken without proper consultation with residents or Burail village community members. Youth Congress general secretary Sandeep Gujjar went further, terming the move "anti-public" and warning that removing the traffic light would worsen traffic congestion and increase road accident risks.
Historical Significance and Public Impact
In a memorandum submitted to city officials, a delegation led by councillor Gurpreet Singh Gabi highlighted the road's historical importance, noting that "the connecting road has been in continuous use for more than three decades, with a traffic light existing at the crossing for nearly 25 years." The delegation, which included BJP councillor Kanwar Rana and other leaders, met with the city's chief architect to present their concerns.
The memorandum detailed how road closure would force commuters to take lengthy detours, significantly increasing traffic pressure on surrounding roads and creating additional transportation challenges for the entire area. Following the meeting, Gabi reported that "the chief architect has assured the delegation that he will visit the site soon and work out a solution keeping public interest in mind."
Temporary Resolution but Ongoing Deadlock
With this assurance from officials, protesters called off their sit-in demonstration. However, the fundamental disagreement between the administration and residents regarding the divider installation remains unresolved. The situation continues to be tense as both sides maintain their positions on this critical infrastructure issue affecting daily life in Chandigarh.
The protest highlighted growing public frustration with administrative decisions perceived as disregarding community needs, particularly when such decisions impact essential transportation routes used by thousands of residents for their daily commute, school transportation, and medical access.
