BJP MLC Pravin Datke has urged the state government to use the unspent funds allocated for cement roads to improve the city’s traffic flow by concretizing and leveling squares. Datke mentioned that Cabinet Minister Uday Samant has assured him of addressing the matter with NMC chief Abhijeet Chaudhari. He added, “We still have 30 to 40 crore from phase four of funds allocated for cement roads.”
According to a local media report, Datke stated, “Earlier this week in the legislative council, I urged the state government to allocate these funds for concretizing and leveling squares. Currently, the squares have cement roads on their perimeters, with the centers covered in paver blocks.”
Datke, a former mayor of Nagpur, pointed out that there is a mismatch in height alignment between the cement roads and the paver blocks. “You have a situation where vehicles experience bumps while transitioning between the cement roads and the squares, and vice versa,” Datke explained. He also expressed concern that rain could lead to waterlogging in these squares.
In most city squares, paver blocks have been extensively used, with some also tarred. “Cabinet Minister Uday Samant assured the house that he will discuss this matter with the NMC commissioner,” said Datke. ” I hope this happens soon because citizens are facing difficulties.” However, NMC commissioner Chaudhari informed the local media that he has not yet received any communication from the state government regarding the council’s discussion. “So far, my office has not informed me about this,” Chaudhari stated.
He further explained that beneath most four-lane intersections, there is a complex network of utility pipelines, which complicates the concretization of the surface. “The technical feasibility of this needs to be studied. I currently do not have an official report or study explaining why paver blocks were chosen for most city squares, but it typically relates to the presence of utility pipelines,” Chaudhari stated. “Regardless, once we receive directions from the state government, we can proceed accordingly.” Chaudhari also highlighted the issue of height alignment, noting that citizens in some areas have already raised concerns about road elevation and potential water flow issues during the monsoon season.