After a recently placed traffic police cabin at a key footpath at Adlabs Chowk turn towards D-Mart in Kalyani Nagar in Pune has sparked serious concerns among local residents after it completely obstructed the footpath, forcing pedestrians onto the busy roadway to commute.
The cabin, installed by the traffic department, sits directly on the footpath, leaving no space for pedestrians to walk, particularly affecting school-going children, senior citizens, and those with disabilities. With rising traffic congestion in the area, local residents raise their woes.
Few weeks ago, blocked footpath in Kalyani Nagar was cleared after the uproar over the issue.
Residents speak up
Rajeshwari Lakhani, a local resident speaking to Free Press Journal, said, “Pedestrians in the area, including children and senior citizens, are forced to walk on the road due to obstruction of the footpath, putting their safety at serious risk, especially during peak traffic hours. Footpaths are vital for pedestrian safety and accessibility, and this obstruction defeats their purpose. I would request authorities to shift this to an alternate place immediately.”
Hemal Chanderia, another pedestrian, expressed, “The placement of a traffic department cabin on the footpath at Adlabs Chowk has completely blocked pedestrian access. The residents, specifically school-going kids and senior citizens, are forced to walk on the road, which defeats the fundamental purpose of footpaths. This incident highlights a broader issue of deteriorating walking spaces and increasing congestion in Kalyani Nagar. We urge the authorities to immediately relocate the traffic cabin and take steps to ensure that footpaths remain clear and accessible for all pedestrians. Their safety must be a top priority.”
Subha, another resident, said, “The traffic police cabin is placed at the wrong spot. It is a menace, especially for senior citizens, as it is a safety hazard. Traffic police are supposed to clear inconvenience; however, the department itself installed their cabin on the footpath. Looking over the safety of pedestrians, the cabin should be relocated as soon as possible.”
