The road stretch from FCI Godown to Chhatrapati Square has become a major concern for commuters due to broken footpaths, potholes, encroachments and ongoing construction activities that have severely affected traffic movement and pedestrian safety. Passing through a densely-populated area that houses six major hospitals, two prominent eateries, a Metro station and a school, the route witnesses heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic throughout the day. However, the condition of the infrastructure presents a stark contrast to its importance. The footpaths along the stretch are in a deplorable condition. While portions have been concretised, other sections are covered with uneven paver blocks, making movement difficult, especially for senior citizens, children and patients visiting nearby hospitals. In several places, footpaths have either been encroached upon or damaged, forcing pedestrians onto the busy roadway. A large pothole near the school poses a serious threat to students and parents.

 

In fact, potholes can be spotted at almost every few metres, resulting in frequent minor accidents and traffic disruptions. After Chhatrapati Square, the road descends towards the Narendra Nagar underpass. At a turning leading towards a celebration hall, heaps of garbage, scattered paver blocks and construction debris occupy significant portions of the road. The junction just before the underpass has turned into a chaotic and accident-prone spot due to poor traffic management and ongoing repair work at the underpass. Commuters allege that vehicles move haphazardly through the construction zone, increasing the risk of collisions.

 

The lack of proper barricading, signage and traffic regulation has further aggravated the situation. Residents of Samarth Nagar, Prashant Nagar and Gajanan Nagar have also expressed concern over roads that have been dug up and left unattended for long periods. Several stretches remain uneven and hazardous, particularly during monsoon conditions. Behind the FCI Godown, near Yashodham Enclave, deep cracks and damaged road surfaces at a turning point have become a cause of frequent skidding incidents. Numerous potholes across the area remain unrepaired despite repeated complaints. Adding to commuters’ woes, construction material has occupied nearly half the width of certain lanes, making two-way traffic movement difficult.

 

With congestion on Wardha Road due to ongoing viaduct-related works, many motorists are using the Prashant Nagar route to access the Narendra Nagar underpass and adjoining localities, significantly increasing traffic movement on these already deteriorated roads. Residents and daily commuters have urged the civic administration to undertake immediate repairs, remove encroachments and construction debris, restore footpaths and ensure proper traffic management before a major accident occurs.