Poorly Planned Shade Nets Worsen Traffic and Miss Purpose Across Nagpur Junctions The Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s (NMC) ₹65 lakh initiative to install green shade nets at 18 major intersections has faced significant backlash, as poorly executed installations have instead exacerbated traffic congestion rather than providing relief to commuters. The project, intended to offer respite from the sun at key junctions, has resulted in bottlenecks, complaints from drivers, and criticism from civic activists. At Tukdoji Putla Square, the shade structures have blocked a critical free left turn, forcing vehicles traveling from Ajni police station to Reshimbagh to queue behind bamboo poles and net frames. Motorists reported that the change has drastically slowed traffic flow, with one auto driver stating, “Earlier, we could take a smooth free left. Now we are stuck in long queues.” Another commuter noted that the nets do not cover actual waiting points, limiting their utility. During peak hours, the narrowed roads have led to overcrowding by two-wheelers, autos, and cars, overwhelming traffic personnel. Similar issues have emerged along Central Avenue, highlighting inconsistencies in the project’s execution. At Vaishno Devi Chowk, nets were installed despite the signal operating in blinker mode, while Wardhaman Nagar Chowk—where shade is more urgently needed—was left without coverage. Commuters remain exposed to direct sunlight at Chhapru Nagar Chowk and along the metro corridor between Wardhaman Nagar and Telephone Exchange Chowk. At Telephone Exchange Square, nets were placed in already shaded areas, leaving sun-exposed stretches uncovered. A gap of nearly 15 feet between zebra crossings and shaded portions further reduces the effectiveness of the installations.#nagpur_municipal_corporation #central_avenue #tukdoji_putla_square #vaishno_devi_chowk #wardhaman_nagar_chowk
Nagpur boiling: NMC to put green nets at signals Nagpur: With temperatures already surpassing 42°C in the city, the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has revived its summer heat mitigation plan, proposing the installation of green shade nets at major traffic intersections. The 65.07 lakh proposal, submitted by the traffic department, will be presented to the standing committee on April 17. The initiative aims to provide temporary relief to thousands of commuters who endure prolonged exposure to direct sunlight at busy junctions. Similar measures were implemented during the summer of 2025 at key locations such as Tukdoji Putla Square, Shankar Nagar Square, GPO Square, Akashwani Square, Indora Square, Cotton Market Square, Gandhi Putla Square, and Reshimbagh Square. At that time, the NMC engaged private decorators, spending nearly 3 lakh per junction for 45 days. These green nets served as makeshift canopies, significantly reducing heat stress for motorists and pedestrians waiting at traffic signals. However, the initiative faced challenges. Instances of nets collapsing at high-traffic intersections raised safety concerns, particularly during sudden gusts of wind or pre-monsoon weather changes. Officials have acknowledged these issues and stated that the new proposal may incorporate improved designs and sturdier installation mechanisms to prevent such incidents. Standing committee chairperson Shivani Dani Wakhare has also suggested exploring more sustainable alternatives, such as solar rooftop structures at select traffic squares. These structures could provide shade while generating renewable energy, offering a long-term solution to heat mitigation.#nagpur_municipal_corporation #shivani_dani_wakhare #tukdoji_putla_square #shankar_nagar_square #gpo_square
