Nagpur: The closure of roads leading to Deekshabhoomi has thrown the traffic movement in several key areas out of gear. Following Monday’s protests and incidents of arson near the Deekshabhoomi Stupa, the Nagpur police have implemented stringent measures by sealing off all routes to the historic site.
As a consequence, major traffic congestion has been reported in Ramdaspeth, Laxmi Nagar, Rahate Colony Square, and Bajaj Nagar Square. These areas, which serve as important traffic movement roads, have been severely affected due to the redirected flow of vehicles away from Deekshabhoomi.
Ramdaspeth, in particular, witnessed a major disruption as traffic that normally passes through Deekshabhoomi was rerouted onto Ramdaspeth Road. Laxmi Nagar also experienced heavy congestion during evening hours which created chaos like situation for the commuters.
Roads in west and southwest Nagpur are already severely hit by ongoing infrastructure works, and the construction of a wider bridge near Ambazari dam spillway. Tuesday’s restrictions added to the woes.
The problem worsened in the evening when offices closed. Due to the closure of NEERI Road on East High Court Road, all traffic was rerouted to Wardha Road and West High Court Road. The stretch on Wardha Road till Lokmat Square was congested, with vehicles taking 10-15 minutes to cross traffic signals. Queues of vehicles were also seen stranded on the Shahid Gowari Flyover in Sitabuldi due to the traffic mess.
On West High Court Road, queues of vehicles were witnessed at major junctions like Laxmi Nagar and Bajaj Nagar Squares. Residents of Laxmi Nagar and adjacent areas faced immense problems as they clashed with police, demanding access from NEERI Road and Rahate Colony Squares. Citizens had to take unnecessary detours, facing traffic snarls.
In response to the chaotic situation, Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Traffic Shashikant Satav stated that the decision to close the roads was necessary to uphold law and order. “We have deployed approximately 20 traffic police personnel at these busy junctions to alleviate congestion and facilitate smoother traffic flow,” he stated. The closure of roads to Deekshabhoomi remains in effect for the next few days as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.
