Barely four years after its inauguration, the Zero Mile Freedom Park, built at a cost of nearly ₹6 crore, is being demolished to make way for a new ₹150 crore underpass between Lohapul and Maharajbagh, spanning just about a kilometre. The move has sparked public anger over what many see as the reckless misuse of taxpayer money.
“If crores can disappear in just four years, what guarantee do we have that this new project will last?” questioned a Sitabuldi resident, reflecting the frustration of many Nagpurites.
Concerns Over Flooding & Poor Planning
Citizens have voiced concerns that the project may repeat mistakes seen elsewhere. Underpasses at Airport, Narendra Nagar, and Ajni frequently flood during monsoon, turning into hazardous traps for commuters. “We are repeating mistakes without fixing the basics,” said a daily commuter.
Adding fuel to the controversy are reports suggesting the project commenced without NOC, environmental clearance, or a proper feasibility study, raising doubts about its safety and long-term sustainability.
Legal Challenge and Pending Payments
A group of citizens has filed a PIL in the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, challenging the demolition of the recently built park and demanding an immediate stay. Despite the legal challenge, demolition work is already underway.
Meanwhile, questions remain over the government’s priorities, as several contractors from earlier civic works are still awaiting payments, even as funds are being diverted to this costly project.
Larger Questions of Governance
“This is not just about one underpass, it’s about governance and accountability,” said a city activist. “We cannot afford a cycle of building and bulldozing every few years. The public pays the price through wasted money, traffic chaos, and environmental damage.”
For now, Nagpur residents are left watching yet another mega-project unfold, sceptical about whether lessons from past planning failures will ever be learned.
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