A LARGE number of residents protested against problems arising from the ongoing Bhopal Highway construction by staging road blockade and demanded immediate relief from traffic-related difficulties, on Tuesday. Residents from Patan and surrounding rural areas gathered on the roads, bringing traffic to a standstill. Protesters charged that the administration had failed to provide proper alternative routes during construction, resulting in frequent accidents, traffic jams and severe inconvenience to commuters. They said the over-bridge on the highway has remained incomplete for nearly eight months while no effective traffic diversion has been arranged.

 

According to residents, ambulances are getting stuck in congestion, vehicle movement has become difficult and local businesses are suffering due to the disruption. Pointing out the situation, additional police force was deployed at the protest site, with officials attempting to convince demonstrators to clear the roads and restore traffic movement. The protest has also triggered speculation about political differences within the same party. Local observers claim that two influential leaders are attempting to gain political credit over the highway project, for its completion and the other highlighting public grievances. Residents have demanded immediate completion of the over-bridge and proper alternative traffic arrangements until construction is completed.