Nagpur: The flagship ‘Walkable Street’ project in Bajaj Nagar, stretching from Abhyankar Nagar Square to Kachipura Square, has turned into a hotspot for open drinking, drug use, and reckless activities, MLA Vikas Thakre told the Assembly on Tuesday.
Thakre raised serious concerns over how the street, developed at a cost of Rs 20 crore, has failed to serve its intended purpose. “The walkable street stretch… is now referred by citizens as the ‘Drugs Street’, as it has become a hub for open drinking, drug consumption, and various other anti-social activities,” he said.
Adding to the concerns, locals report that youngsters start gathering here from the evening onwards. Improper parking on both sides of the road creates congestion, and the broken central divider has led to multiple accidents, though no attention has been paid to these hazards. Once office hours end, the opposite side of the street becomes a gathering spot where youngsters drink, leave bottles, and accumulate garbage, making the area unsafe and messy.
Thakre also pointed out that essential amenities like designated parking zones, public toilets, and basic facilities were neglected. “The cycle tracks, walking paths, and seating areas constructed along one side of the road have now degenerated into dens for drinking and other illegal activities,” he added.
Taking note of these issues, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that if any anti-social activities occur in the future, the concerned Police Inspector at Bajaj Nagar will be held responsible. He also said a special drive will be immediately launched to curb these activities.
Thakre further criticized the project execution. “Spending Rs 20 crore on this road was completely unnecessary. At a time when roads needed widening for increasing traffic, this project reduced the road’s width,” he said. He demanded a high-level inquiry and strict action against officials and stakeholders responsible for the failure of the project.
Citizens have also lodged complaints about a rise in eve-teasing and other criminal activities, highlighting the urgent need for public safety measures and maintenance.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com