PWD Picks Traffic Island Model For Besa Sq, Nixes Roundabout The Public Works Department (PWD) has finalized a redesign plan for Besa Square in Nagpur, opting for a traffic-island model instead of the landscaped roundabout initially proposed by the Besa-Pipla Nagar Panchayat. Officials confirmed the revamped junction will be completed by August 15, contingent on the completion of utility-shifting work. The project includes replacing an aging water pipeline beneath the intersection, a task expected to take about a month. Construction of the redesigned junction will commence once the pipeline work is finalized. The PWD’s decision to prioritize traffic islands over the Nagar Panchayat’s roundabout proposal was based on the junction’s heavy traffic volume and the need to minimize congestion during construction. A PWD official explained that Besa Square will feature concrete paving blocks and small traffic and pedestrian islands designed to streamline left-turn movements while allowing through traffic to flow unhindered. This approach contrasts with the proposed designs for Bajaj Nagar and Kachipura squares, which included decorative stone blocks and a circular roundabout. The Nagar Panchayat had initially suggested a landscaped roundabout with a bust of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and other beautification elements. However, the PWD rejected the proposal, citing space constraints and visibility concerns. A senior PWD official emphasized that the department would execute the project independently, stating that the Nagar Panchayat’s roundabout idea was deemed infeasible at the congested junction. The official highlighted that a roundabout would obstruct visibility and impede traffic movement at one of the city’s busiest intersections. “We cannot block the road for a month.#nagpur #public_works_department #chhatrapati_shivaji_maharaj #nagar_panchayat #besa_square
Illnesses & Despair Float In Godhni Sewage Swamp A once-functional drainage channel in Godhni’s Suman Nagari area has transformed into a stagnant sewage pool, sparking fears of a public health crisis and groundwater contamination. Residents describe the situation as a growing environmental disaster, with foul-smelling black water pooling near homes for months. The stagnant sewage, laden with sludge and waste, has become a persistent source of distress, worsening with each passing season. During monsoon, the water spreads into nearby areas, while summers bring unbearable stench and a surge in mosquito activity. Locals now worry that the contaminated water is seeping underground, threatening nearby wells, borewells, and drinking water sources. The crisis has persisted for nearly two years, with residents alleging years of neglect by civic authorities. Dilip Rana, a local resident, highlighted the severity of the issue, stating, “The drainage channel got completely choked, and since there was no outlet left, the sewage water kept accumulating here for months until the entire area turned into a stagnant black pool.” An anonymous resident added, “The stench has become unbearable, and the sewage water has remained stagnant here for so long that we now fear it is slowly seeping underground. Over time, it will mix with the groundwater and eventually contaminate nearby wells, borewells, and even drinking water sources used by residents.” Residents have repeatedly complained to the Nagar Panchayat and other civic authorities, but no permanent solution has been implemented. The site now resembles a “mini sewage lake,” with contaminated sludge settling into the soil and residents forced to live alongside the polluted water.#nagar_panchayat #godhni #suman_nagari #dilip_rana #jyoti_kondekar
After accidents and objections, trees obstructing Besa-Pipla road removed Nagpur: After months of debate and a series of accidents, authorities removed two Gulmohar trees standing in the middle of the busy Besa-Pipla main road on Tuesday night, bringing relief to commuters and motorists. Several mishaps had been reported at the spot over the past few months. The recent accident on Monday night renewed calls for removal of these trees. Despite the risks, authorities had earlier held back from taking action due to strong objections from environmental activists. A senior Public Works Department (PWD) official told TOI that all mandatory procedures were followed before the trees were cut. "We identify and mark trees based on their location and whether they fall within the road alignment. A public notice is issued, and objections, if any, are considered. Only after discussions and due approvals do we proceed," the official said. He added that compensatory plantation will be undertaken in line with norms. "The ratio generally depends on the size and type of tree. In this case, we will plant 14 trees as compensation. Once the road work is completed, we will take up fresh plantation along the stretch, either through PWD or the Nagar Panchayat, which will also benefit pedestrians," he said. Officials noted that certain species like banyan and peepal trees require additional consideration due to their ecological and cultural significance. The move has drawn mixed reactions from residents. N Cherian, a Pipla resident, said the trees could have been preserved through alternative measures. "Instead of cutting the trees, authorities could have barricaded them properly. Now, compensatory plantation must be ensured," he said.#public_works_department #besa_pipla_road #environmental_activists #nagar_panchayat #bharat_nandanwar
