Pedestrians Left To Risk Their Lives As City Lacks Safe Walking Spaces The recent death of a morning walker, who was allegedly struck by a speeding car driven by a drunk motorist in Nagpur, has brought to light a persistent crisis in urban safety. The incident underscores a broader issue: for many residents, a simple walk through the city often means exposing themselves to life-threatening dangers. Encroached footpaths, illegal parking, and the absence of dedicated walking spaces have forced hundreds of people onto busy roads each day, leaving them vulnerable to speeding vehicles and inattentive drivers. Despite repeated calls from Union minister Nitin Gadkari, little progress has been made to address the problem. Residents describe a daily struggle to find safe routes. In areas like Swagat Nagar on New Narsala Road, Samyak Ganvir, a local resident, highlighted the lack of proper infrastructure. “There is hardly any proper space to walk in our area. Every morning, around 100 people are forced onto the road, while many travel 1-2 km from home just to find a suitable place. Walking alongside traffic is unsafe,” he said. Similar challenges are reported in Ajni and surrounding neighborhoods. Sparsh Besekar, a resident of the Ajni Police Station-Tukdoji Putla area, noted that even existing gardens are often closed or poorly maintained. “Even where gardens exist, they often remain closed, and grounds are poorly maintained. This forces people onto the roads and puts their safety at risk,” he added. The problem extends to the availability and maintenance of footpaths and walking tracks. Citizens report that these spaces are frequently obstructed by encroachments, parked vehicles, or other barriers. “Pedestrian space has always remained a distant dream in Nagpur.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #manish_nagar #ajni #swagat_nagar
Nitin Gadkari Emphasizes Ethics and Quality in Business Success Union minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the importance of honesty, credibility, and quality in driving business success during his address at the Economic Times ‘Changemakers of Nagpur 2026’ event. Speaking as the chief guest, Gadkari emphasized that ethical practices and the conversion of knowledge into wealth are critical for shaping the future of industries. He underscored that while technology and capital are often seen as key factors, they must be complemented by strong moral foundations and a commitment to excellence. Gadkari, who is also the minister for road transport and highways, praised entrepreneurs as creators of wealth and employment, stressing the need to maximize job opportunities in Nagpur and the Vidarbha region. He argued that increased employment would not only boost per capita income and GDP but also contribute to reducing poverty. The minister cited Nagpur’s achievements in waste management as a national example, noting that the city generates 22 tonnes of compressed natural gas (CNG) daily through efficient segregation and treatment of sewage. He attributed this success to robust research and development efforts, emphasizing that innovation is essential for sustainable industrial growth. Gadkari also reiterated the importance of exports in nation-building, positioning them as a vital component of economic development. The event, organized by The Times of India and Maharashtra Times in collaboration with National Commodity Supply Corporation Of India, NTPC Limited, and Vidarbha Management Association, recognized 40 changemakers, achievers, and visionaries.#nitin_gadkari #economic_times #changemakers_of_nagpur_2026 #vidarbha_management_association #national_commodity_supply_corporation_of_india
Used EV Batteries Can Power Homes as Second Source: Gadkari Union minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted the potential of repurposing used lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles during the inauguration of an EV startup in Nagpur. Speaking at the event, Gadkari emphasized that these batteries could serve as a “second source” of power for residential use, extending their lifecycle as stationary energy-storage systems. This approach, he noted, could enhance the sustainability and value of electric mobility while addressing the growing demand for renewable energy solutions. The startup, founded by Ashish Dokania, specializes in converting conventional petrol-powered mopeds into electric vehicles through retrofitting. Dokania’s company already operates plants in Bengaluru and Hyderabad and has expanded to Nagpur, offering a cost-effective alternative to full vehicle replacement. The retrofitting process involves replacing key components such as the battery, motor, controller, rear wheel, display, throttle, wiring, and mounts. Modifications to the swing arm and suspension are also made to accommodate the new system. Dokania explained that lead-acid batteries, while cheaper, have shorter lifespans compared to lithium-ion batteries, which can last up to 50,000 kilometers. He also noted that portable batteries can be charged at home, making them a practical option for users. However, he highlighted that battery-related components account for nearly 50% of the overall retrofitting cost, underscoring the need for affordable solutions to make EV adoption accessible to a broader audience. Gadkari urged policymakers to ensure retrofitting kits are priced affordably, enabling people from all socioeconomic backgrounds to transition to electric mobility.#nagpur #bengaluru #hyderabad #nitin_gadkari #ashish_dokania
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath Extends Raksha Bandhan Greetings Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday extended greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan, describing the festival as a celebration of love, trust, tradition, and affection. In a post on X, Adityanath stated, “Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the people of the state on the sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan, which embodies love, trust, traditions, and affection.” The Chief Minister emphasized that the festival symbolizes the unbreakable bond between brothers and sisters, urging people to use the occasion to strengthen the country’s cultural heritage and family values. He said, “Let us, on this holy festival symbolizing the unbreakable bond of love between brother and sister, all resolve to strengthen our eternal cultural heritage and family values.” Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju also extended his greetings, calling Raksha Bandhan a symbol of the sacred bond of love, affection, and trust between siblings. In a post on X, Rijiju wrote, “Heartfelt wishes to all on the sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing the holy bond of love, affection, and trust between brother and sister.” He added, “May God bless everyone’s life with happiness, prosperity, and joy.” Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari greeted people on the occasion, stating, “This sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan is a symbol of the love, affection, and commitment between brother and sister. Heartfelt wishes to all countrymen on this sacred festival of Raksha Bandhan.” Raksha Bandhan is traditionally celebrated with sisters tying a sacred thread, or Rakhi, around their brothers’ wrists.#uttar_pradesh #nitin_gadkari #yogi_adityanath #kiren_rijiju #raksha_bandhan
Gadkari Directs Civic Bodies to Address Citizen Grievances on War Footing Union minister Nitin Gadkari convened a public outreach program in Nagpur on Sunday, directing civic and government authorities to prioritize resolving citizen grievances on a “war footing.” The event, held at Gadkari Wada in Mahal, attracted a large crowd of residents who submitted representations on a wide range of issues, including civic infrastructure, administrative procedures, and personal concerns. Gadkari emphasized the urgency of addressing these problems, instructing officials to act swiftly and ensure solutions were implemented without unnecessary delays. The minister urged officials to engage directly with citizens to understand their specific concerns and deliver effective resolutions. During the program, several attendees expressed gratitude for previous actions taken by Gadkari’s team, highlighting the impact of his interventions. Gadkari reiterated the need for continuous follow-up on pending grievances, ensuring that citizens received the relief they required. Persons with disabilities also participated in the event, seeking assistance such as artificial limbs and other assistive equipment. Gadkari directed officials from the Central Road Accidents Fund (CRC) present at the program to expedite the provision of these resources. The outreach initiative also included an interaction with Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) athletes from the Army Cantonment. These athletes, selected for an upcoming international competition, received Gadkari’s congratulations and well-wishes for their success.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #nagpur_municipal_corporation #nagpur_improvement_trust #central_road_accidents_fund
Road Accidents Claim More Lives Than Terrorism, War & Covid: Gadkari Union minister Nitin Gadkari made a striking statement during a training program for 1,400 tribal teachers in Nagpur, asserting that road accidents in India claim more lives annually than terrorism, riots, wars, and even the pandemic. Speaking at the event organized by the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust, Gadkari highlighted the alarming scale of road fatalities, citing approximately five lakh deaths each year. He attributed this crisis to a pervasive lack of fear and respect for the law, emphasizing that societal complacency has allowed such preventable tragedies to persist. Gadkari’s remarks came as he underscored the importance of transforming India’s self-rule (Swarajya) into a society of good governance (Surajya). He called for sustained efforts in four key areas—Lok Prabodhan (public awareness), Lok Shikshan (education), Lok Sangharsh (community struggle), and Lok Sanskar (cultural values)—which he described as the pillars of social development. The minister also urged individuals to prioritize self-improvement, acknowledging that no one is perfect and that continuous growth in skills, knowledge, and values is essential for responsible citizenship. The training program, held at the premises of the Anusuaya Mata temple—a site Gadkari recalled as “holy and sacred”—was part of a long-term initiative in tribal education. He noted that efforts in this field have spanned nearly three decades, with the trust continuing Mankar’s legacy. Laxmanrao Mankar, a former MP and teacher, had previously been an RSS swayamsevak and Jan Sangh member before joining the BJP. After stepping away from politics, Mankar’s health declined, leading to his death.#nitin_gadkari #laxmanrao_mankar_trust #anusuaya_mata_temple #agrovision_building #rss_swayamsevak
Ambazari Lake Revival: Watersports and Garden Redevelopment Plan Unveiled Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) is advancing plans to transform Ambazari Lake into a recreational hub by introducing watersports and reviving the adjacent garden, following significant progress in clearing water hyacinth from the waterbody. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Nagpur Mayor Nita Thackeray recently participated in a water ritual and boat ride on the lake, underscoring the civic body’s commitment to restoring the site. The event coincided with ongoing efforts to remove invasive water hyacinth, which had long choked the lake’s ecosystem. Municipal officials and local representatives joined the officials during the visit, highlighting the collaborative approach to the project. Mayor Neeta Thakre announced that the NMC will seek approval from the Maharashtra state government to launch watersports at the lake, positioning it as a major recreational destination for Nagpur residents. The proposal will be presented to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is set to visit the site on Thursday. Thakre emphasized the dual focus on environmental restoration and public engagement, stating that the lakefront redevelopment aims to address both ecological concerns and community needs. The initiative follows years of stalled efforts to reclaim and repurpose land at Mouza Ambazari, which had been transferred to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) for a tourism project. The MTDC’s project, however, faced repeated legal challenges and delays, leading to its stagnation. Citizens and the Ambazari Conservation Committee had contested the land transfer, arguing that the project failed to meet its deadlines and lacked transparency.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #nagpur_municipal_corporation #maharashtra_tourism_development_corporation #nita_thackeray
88% Of Nagpur Buildings Lack Occupancy Certificates, Gadkari Orders Four-Month Resolution Nagpur: A significant portion of the city’s buildings lack essential occupancy certificates, prompting urgent action from Union minister Nitin Gadkari. During a meeting at his Mahal office, Gadkari directed authorities to issue notices to 3,243 buildings that do not have Occupancy Certificates (OCs), with a four-month deadline to resolve the issue. The meeting, which also addressed the Nag River Project and building permission certificates, revealed that only 426 out of 3,669 buildings in Nagpur have obtained OCs. This leaves a staggering 88% of the city’s constructed buildings without the mandatory certification required for legal occupancy. State revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who attended the meeting, emphasized that no orders have been issued to halt the registration of new independent houses. He clarified that registrations would continue under existing rules, provided applicants submit all required legal documents and certificates. The confusion surrounding building permissions and OCs, particularly for large structures, had led to recent suspensions of flat registrations. Bawankule had previously directed the district sub-registrar to pause flat registrations until compliance with infrastructure norms was verified, a move linked to a proposed review of builders’ adherence to safety and infrastructure standards. Gadkari reiterated the need for strict enforcement, noting that residents who purchased homes based on incomplete documentation face risks. He instructed authorities to handle such cases sensitively but within legal boundaries. Developers failing to obtain OCs were barred from registering their properties.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #nagpur_municipal_corporation #nagpur_improvement_trust #chandrashekhar_bawankule
Suspend Officials, Blacklist Contractors If Dug-up Roads Aren’t Restored: Gadkari Union minister Nitin Gadkari criticized officials of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s Public Health Engineering department for failing to restore roads excavated under the Amrut scheme. During a meeting at his Mahal office to review the Nag River Project and settlement rehabilitation efforts, Gadkari directed officials responsible for incomplete road restoration to be suspended and contractors to be blacklisted. The meeting included senior civic officials, including mayor Neeta Thakre and guardian minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule. Gadkari emphasized that the city had faced significant inconvenience due to improperly restored roads and warned that the same issue must not recur during the Nag River Project, which involves extensive excavation. The Nag River Project is planned in five phases and includes sewage treatment, sewerage works, and road excavation across multiple assembly constituencies. Over 500 kilometers of roads will be dug up to strengthen the sewage network. Gadkari urged officials to adopt modern machinery and technology for both excavation and restoration. He also highlighted the lack of a utility mapping system to identify underground pipelines, cables, and infrastructure before excavation. Officials informed him that Nagpur currently does not have such a system. Gadkari proposed developing common ducts beneath roads to accommodate future infrastructure needs, ensuring long-term utility without repeated road disruptions. The meeting also addressed the rehabilitation of unauthorized settlements and slums within 15 meters of the Nag River. NMC commissioner Vipin Itankar stated that approximately 2,500 houses would need to be rehabilitated for affected residents.#nitin_gadkari #nagpur_municipal_corporation #chandrashekhar_bawankule #neeta_thakre #nag_river_project
Lakhnau-Kanpur Expressway: Promises of Modern Infrastructure Face Immediate Challenges The Lakhnau-Kanpur Expressway, inaugurated on July 13, 2026, by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari with assurances of a "model highway" akin to American roads, has already faced significant issues within 18 days of its opening. Reports indicate that 84 locations across the 63-kilometer route require urgent repairs, with cracks, potholes, and uneven surfaces reported by drivers. Some sections of the road have shown signs of instability, prompting concerns about safety and durability. The project, managed by PNC Infrastructure Limited, has been labeled a "non-performer" by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). The company, owned by the brother of BJP state legislature member Navin Jain, was initially banned from new tenders in October 2024 due to allegations of corruption and unethical practices. These allegations included accusations of bribing NHAI officials and providing undue benefits. Despite the ban being lifted after a year, the quality of the road has drawn criticism. NHAI has instructed IIT Kharagpur to investigate the expressway’s structural integrity. Engineers noted that the road’s foundation was improperly laid, with irregular layers of soil and inadequate compaction. This has led to sections of the road being prone to collapse under heavy traffic or rainfall. Drivers have reported uneven surfaces, sudden depressions, and in one instance, a truck overturning due to unstable conditions. The financial cost of the project is substantial. The 63-kilometer expressway cost approximately ₹47 billion, with each kilometer costing around ₹750 million. This makes it the most expensive expressway in Uttar Pradesh to date.#nitin_gadkari #iit_kharagpur #nhai #lakhnaukanpur_expressway #pnc_infrastructure_limited
Bombay High Court Orders Removal of Deepfake Posts Against Nitin Gadkari The Bombay High Court has directed the immediate removal of online deepfake content that was deemed indecent, defamatory, and offensive to Central Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. The court’s order, issued by Justice Arif Doctor in a single-judge bench, mandated that platforms such as Meta, X Corp, Google LLC, and unknown content creators remove the posts. The ruling emphasized that such material should not be accessible online, particularly for vulnerable groups like young people. The case originated from Gadkari’s legal petition against AI-generated deepfake videos that falsely linked him and his family to the E20 ethanol-blended petrol policy. The videos alleged that the policy provided financial benefits to Gadkari’s family, despite the minister clarifying that the E20 program is managed entirely by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, not his department. Gadkari had sought the removal of these posts and demanded ₹11 crore in damages for reputational harm. The court’s order granted Gadkari the right to file civil suits against the platforms and content creators responsible for hosting the offensive material. Justice Doctor criticized the platforms for lacking systems to detect and remove such content proactively, stating, “If you have the technology, why don’t you have a system to catch these cases? If someone uploads indecent or defamatory content, it must be removed immediately. This is a very low standard.” The bench also questioned the platforms about their ability to identify and delete harmful posts without court intervention, stressing the need for stricter oversight.#nitin_gadkari #meta #google_llc #bombay_high_court #x_corp
Bombay High Court Orders Meta and X to Remove Offensive Posts Against Nitin Gadkari The Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed social media platforms Meta and X (formerly Twitter) to immediately remove inappropriate content related to Central Minister Nitin Gadkari. The court also mandated that the companies provide details of the users who posted such content. The order came as part of a legal dispute initiated by Gadkari, who alleges that false information about him and his family is being spread online, damaging his reputation. Gadkari filed a petition on July 27, accusing social media platforms of linking him to the E20 ethanol blending program, which he has long advocated for. The petition claims that users are creating offensive comments and memes that falsely associate him with alleged profits from the program. The court emphasized that such content must be removed promptly, even if it is posted in the future. During the hearing, representatives from Meta (Facebook and Instagram) and X Corp (formerly Twitter) were present in court. Justice Arif Doctor, presiding over the single bench, instructed the platforms to ensure that offensive posts are deleted immediately. The judge questioned whether the companies had systems in place to automatically detect and remove such content without requiring a court order each time. He stressed that platforms with advanced technology should have mechanisms to address these issues proactively. The court also granted Gadkari the authority to file a civil case against anonymous users spreading false information about him and his family. The judge highlighted the need for platforms to take responsibility for content moderation, stating that offensive material should be removed without delay.#nitin_gadkari #meta #bombay_high_court #x_corp #e20_ethanol_program
Maha CM Fadnavis, Gadkari pay tributes to director of Vicco Sumant Pendharkar Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari expressed deep condolences following the death of Sumant Pendharkar, the director of Vicco Laboratories, who passed away at the age of 82. His final rites were conducted at Ambazari Ghat in Nagpur on Sunday. Both leaders highlighted Pendharkar’s contributions to India’s industrial and cultural landscape, emphasizing his role in elevating Vicco from a regional brand to a global symbol of Ayurveda. Gadkari praised Pendharkar’s legacy, stating that his work embodied a unique blend of indigenous industry, ethical entrepreneurship, and social responsibility. He noted that Pendharkar’s vision transformed Vicco into an internationally recognized entity, showcasing the potential of Ayurveda on the global stage. “His work and value-based life will remain an inspiration for generations to come,” Gadkari said, adding his solidarity with the Pendharkar family during their time of grief. Fadnavis described Pendharkar as an accomplished industrialist whose life was guided by principles of simplicity and integrity. He credited Pendharkar with giving Vicco a global reach and advancing the cause of Ayurveda. Fadnavis also acknowledged the family’s enduring contributions to the development of Dombivli, highlighting their impact on education, culture, and industry. “The Pendharkar family’s legacy will always be remembered for their transformative role in shaping the region,” he said. Both leaders extended their heartfelt condolences to the Pendharkar family and the Vicco group, expressing hope that the family would find strength to cope with their loss.#nitin_gadkari #maharashtra_chief_minister #sumant_pendharkar #vicco_laboratories #ambazari_ghat
Asia’s Finest Skill University to Come Up in Nagpur: CM Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Sunday the establishment of a skill university in Nagpur, positioning it as one of Asia’s premier institutions for vocational training. The project, set to bridge the gap between education and industry, aims to equip local youth with skills aligned with the demands of Central India’s expanding industrial sector. Fadnavis stated that the land for the university would be finalized within a month, with collaboration from major industries to ensure graduates are job-ready. Speaking after inaugurating the Skill Development Centre at Pardi, Fadnavis emphasized that the university would feature specialized schools operated by leading companies in sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and emerging industries in Vidarbha. He highlighted that graduates would be trained to secure employment immediately, with courses co-designed by industry partners to reflect real-world requirements. The initiative is part of a broader effort to address the shortage of skilled labor in the region. Fadnavis noted that while industries in Vidarbha—particularly in solar energy, electric vehicles, healthcare, and iron ore-based sectors—offer numerous jobs, they often struggle to find trained workers. The skill university and associated centers are intended to meet this demand by providing targeted training. He also mentioned that approximately 75% of current skill training participants already secure employment, with the government aiming to increase this rate to 90% through enhanced industry collaboration and modernized programs. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who also attended the inauguration, proposed allocating 100 acres of land for the university.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #vidarbha #association_for_industrial_development
Bhat Hall Now Features Art Gallery and Convention Centre Residents of central and east Nagpur now have access to a new cultural and social hub with the inauguration of an art gallery-cum-convention centre at the Kavivarya Suresh Bhat Auditorium in Reshimbagh. The facility, which opened on Saturday, was officially launched by Union minister Nitin Gadkari, who highlighted its role in providing a modern venue for artists, organizations, and local communities. The centre spans 12,500 square feet on the ground floor and includes four fully air-conditioned halls equipped with acoustic panels and folding partitions to accommodate a variety of events. The project, led by one of its directors, Shashikant Manapure, aims to address a long-standing gap in the region’s infrastructure. Manapure noted that prior to the centre’s opening, residents of central and east Nagpur lacked a well-equipped space for cultural and social gatherings. He emphasized that the facility’s proximity to residential areas makes it accessible for local communities, with plans to host exhibitions, seminars, and cultural events. The centre also features air conditioning, acoustic facilities, and food services, with its 7,000-square-foot open space designed to accommodate temporary structures like domes and pavilions for festivals, trade fairs, and outdoor gatherings. A 4,500-square-foot fine-dining restaurant is currently under development adjacent to the centre, set to offer tea, snacks, refreshments, and full-course meals. The opening celebrations included a group exhibition titled “Rangmegh,” showcasing works by 16 local artists. The exhibition, which blends diverse artistic styles and techniques, marks the gallery’s debut as a destination for art enthusiasts.#nitin_gadkari #reshimbagh #kavivarya_suresh_bhat_auditorium #rangmegh_exhibition #shashikant_manapure
Nagpur Skill Centre Launches to Boost Industrial Workforce Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari will inaugurate the Nagpur Skill Centre at Pardi on July 26, marking a significant step toward creating a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of industries in Vidarbha. The initiative, announced at a press conference on Friday, is a collaborative effort between the Association for Industrial Development (AID), Tata STRIVE, Nagpur Municipal Corporation, Skill India, and the Vidarbha Global Foundation. The centre will operate on a 1.25-acre campus, offering free, employment-focused training to nearly 2,000 youth annually. The programme is designed to cater to a wide range of educational backgrounds. Candidates who have completed Class 10 can enroll in courses such as solar PV installer (Suryamitra), assistant electrician, and food and beverage service. Those with Class 12 qualifications or higher can pursue programmes like front office associate, UI/UX designer, and business development executive. While the formal inauguration is scheduled for July 26, the centre has already begun training 90 candidates, according to AID president Ashish Kale. Beyond classroom instruction, the centre emphasizes practical skills through on-the-job training, computer education, and spoken English classes. Specific programmes, such as the general duty assistant course, are open to applicants aged 20 to 45, while other courses require participants to be between 18 and 35 years old. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic qualifications and industry demands, ensuring graduates are job-ready. The collaboration underscores the commitment of multiple stakeholders to skill development.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #association_for_industrial_development #nagpur_skill_centre #tata_strive
Raise Vidarbha in Lok Sabha: VRAS Petitions Gadkari Ahead of Monsoon Session Nagpur: The Vidarbha Rajya Andolan Samiti (VRAS) has renewed its push for the creation of a separate Vidarbha state, urging Union Minister Nitin Gadkari to address the issue during the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament. The demand, rooted in the BJP’s 1997 national executive resolution, was formally raised by VRAS leaders who met Gadkari on Sunday to submit a memorandum. The delegation, led by VRAS East Vidarbha division president Arun Kedar, emphasized that the BJP’s current leadership should honor its historical commitment to the region’s statehood. The memorandum, submitted to Gadkari, highlighted persistent developmental challenges in Vidarbha, including recurring agrarian crises, rising farmer suicides, and high youth unemployment. VRAS argued that these issues stem from the region’s lack of dedicated governance and resources, despite its abundant natural wealth. The organization contended that a separate state would enable faster decision-making, better infrastructure development, and tailored policies to address Vidarbha’s unique needs. Kedar and his team, which included prominent VRAS leaders such as Mukesh Masurkar, Sunil Chokhare, and Ganesh Sharma, also accused Maharashtra of exploiting Vidarbha economically and socially. They claimed that statehood is essential to ensure equitable growth and prevent further marginalization of the region. The memorandum stressed that piecemeal solutions are insufficient, and only a dedicated administrative structure could resolve the systemic issues plaguing Vidarbha. The VRAS delegation linked the statehood demand to broader concerns about regional imbalance, asserting that the current federal framework fails to address Vidarbha’s specific challenges.#nitin_gadkari #arun_kedar #vidarbha_rajya_andolan_samiti #mukesh_masurkar #sunil_chokhare
Gadkari Distributes Prosthetic Limbs and Wheelchairs at Janta Darbar Hundreds of citizens gathered at Union minister Nitin Gadkari’s weekly Janata Darbar in Nagpur on Sunday, where the event focused on addressing civic issues, medical assistance requests, and welfare-related concerns. Gadkari personally engaged with citizens, directing officials from various government departments to resolve pending matters promptly. A key highlight of the event was the distribution of prosthetic limbs, wheelchairs, and other assistive devices to individuals with disabilities, known as Divyangs. Beneficiaries who had previously approached the minister for mobility aids received the necessary assistance, expressing gratitude for the life-changing support. The Janata Darbar attracted participation from officials of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation, Nagpur Improvement Trust, District Collector’s Office, and other government departments. Citizens presented a range of grievances, and Gadkari listened to each case individually, issuing immediate instructions to concerned officials for swift action. He emphasized the importance of resolving public issues without delay, urging departments to avoid bureaucratic hurdles that could prolong the process. The event drew attendees from diverse sections of society, including senior citizens, Divyangs, representatives of social service organizations, and religious institutions. Many approached Gadkari with requests related to civic amenities, welfare schemes, healthcare support, and administrative matters. Several patients and their families also met with the minister to thank him for facilitating financial assistance for medical treatments through government schemes.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #nagpur_municipal_corporation #nagpur_improvement_trust #janata_darbar
Nagpur's Children's Traffic Park Revives Road Safety Lessons for Students A few days after The Times of India (TOI) highlighted the deteriorating condition of the Children’s Traffic Park in Dharampeth, the venue in Nagpur regained its purpose on Tuesday as city-based NGO Janakrosh organized a road safety awareness program for school students. The initiative, which involved around 80 students from Mundle English Medium School, focused on interactive learning through miniature road intersections, traffic signals, zebra crossings, stop lines, and simulated accident scenarios. The event aimed to instill practical knowledge of traffic rules in a safe environment, addressing the city’s ongoing challenges with road accidents and traffic violations. The Children’s Traffic Park, originally developed by the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) in 2009 as an experiential learning space, had fallen into disrepair over the years due to poor maintenance, damaged infrastructure, and encroachments. TOI’s recent report had emphasized the urgent need to restore the park as a hub for road safety education. During the relaunch, Janakrosh president Prakash Khandekar stressed the importance of introducing road safety education at an early age, noting that hands-on demonstrations leave a lasting impression on children. He emphasized that the traffic model was designed to mirror real-life traffic situations, reviving the park’s original purpose. The program included a pledge-taking session where students committed to following traffic rules and participated in an interactive quiz titled “Kaun Banega Roadpati,” conducted by Dnyanesh Pahune.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #times_of_india #nagpur_municipal_corporation #janakrosh
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis Announces Plan to Eliminate All Level Crossings Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Sunday that all 524 level crossings in the state will be replaced with railway overbridges (ROBs), underbridges (RUBs), and subways. Highlighting the safety risks, he cited an estimated 21,000 annual deaths at railway crossings nationwide, emphasizing that eliminating these crossings is critical to improving road safety. Fadnavis made the announcement during a visit to Nagpur, where he inaugurated nine railway infrastructure projects worth Rs 484 crore developed by the Maharashtra Rail Infrastructure Development Corporation (MahaRail). The projects span Nagpur, Amravati, Chandrapur, Sangli, Satara, and Nashik districts. Breaking down the 524 level crossings, Fadnavis stated that the Railways are currently executing 240 sanctioned projects and working on an additional 73. He credited Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari for supporting the initiative and assured that MahaRail would complete the remaining work through state-funded loans, aiming to make Maharashtra free of level crossings. Fadnavis provided further details on the progress, noting that in-principle approval has been granted for 131 crossings, with work already started at 65 sites. Additionally, 80 locations where urban development has occurred on either side of railway tracks but lacks flyovers, subways, or other crossing facilities have been approved for projects. The initiative underscores Maharashtra’s commitment to modernizing its railway infrastructure while prioritizing public safety. Fadnavis’s plan reflects a broader effort to address long-standing safety concerns and align with national transportation goals.#nagpur #nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #maha_rail
