Nagpur Municipal Corporation’s Nuisance Detection Squad (NDS) has ramped up efforts to tackle traffic obstructions caused by unauthorized pandals and stages during festivals and private events. These structures block roads, disrupt emergency services, and cause delays.
Between January 1 and December 23, the NDS penalized 14,199 individuals, recovering Rs 1.65 crore in fines across 10 zones.
Zone-wise penalty recovery:
• Laxminagar Zone: 12,17,800
• Dharampeth Zone: 31,60,900
• Hanuman Nagar Zone: 20,52,000
• Dhantoli Zone: 11,31,500
• Nehru Nagar Zone: 17,87,000
• Gandhibagh Zone: 23,65,500
• Satranjipura Zone: 6,60,000
The NDS’s stringent measures aim to curb the misuse of public spaces and ensure smoother traffic flow, particularly during emergencies.
In addition to traffic issues, widespread power theft during street events has been reported. Event organizers bypass meters and illegally tap into power lines, leading to significant revenue losses for MSEDCL. This illegal practice creates safety hazards, including electric shocks and fire risks.
While event hosts spend on lavish decorations, they avoid paying electricity bills, exacerbating Nagpur’s power theft problem. Local residents and authorities are calling for stronger action to prevent these hazards and ensure public safety.
MSEDCL is urged to take stricter measures to curb these illegal activities before a disaster strikes.