Members of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and their allies staged a symbolic hunger strike in Trichy on Wednesday, voicing intense frustration over the city's rapidly deteriorating traffic situation. The protest, held near the bustling Central Bus Stand, highlighted the daily ordeal faced by commuters.
City-Wide Gridlock Sparks Public Anger
The protesters, which included activists from the VCK Trichy urban district unit, pointed out a alarming trend. Traffic congestion, once limited to a few narrow lanes and crowded highways, has now engulfed almost all parts of Trichy. This pervasive gridlock is causing significant hardship for residents navigating the city for work and daily chores.
Delayed Infrastructure Projects Under Fire
A major point of contention is the slow pace of critical infrastructure projects. The demonstrators specifically questioned the inordinate delay in completing two vital railway road overbridges (RoBs). One is at Trichy Junction and the other near Trichy Fort railway station. These projects are seen as essential to decongesting key points in the city.
Furthermore, the protestors trained their criticism on the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). They highlighted the prolonged delay in finishing a crucial segment of the Trichy semi-ring road. This stretch is designed to connect the Trichy-Madurai National Highway with the Trichy-Karur NH via the Trichy-Dindigul NH, promising major relief for through traffic.
Call for Action to Prevent Fatal Accidents
Linking the congestion directly to safety, the protesters warned of a rise in road fatalities. P Lenin, a district executive committee member of CPM, issued a stern call to action. "Fatal accidents are increasing in the city," he said. He urged that traffic chaos in important areas must be resolved immediately.
"The district administration and city police must coordinate and take corrective measures on a war footing to prevent road fatalities," Lenin emphasized. The hunger strike serves as a stark reminder to authorities that citizens demand tangible solutions and timely completion of long-pending projects to ensure safer, smoother commutes.
