The serene and well-organized neighborhood of Kalyani Nagar in Pune has recently found itself grappling with an unexpected problem – the proliferation of illegal auto rickshaw stands bearing the names of influential figures. This issue, in direct violation of Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) regulations, has raised concerns among residents, casting a shadow over the neighborhood’s aesthetics, traffic flow, and the principle of upholding the rule of law.
In Kalyani Nagar, the only legally sanctioned auto rickshaw stand boards bear the distinctive blue insignia of the PMC. These boards are strategically placed to ensure the orderly flow of traffic and pedestrians. However, a concerning number of unauthorized boards, prominently displaying the names of politicians, have emerged, causing a myriad of problems.
The consequences of these unauthorized boards are wide-ranging. Firstly, they disrupt the modern aesthetic that Kalyani Nagar is known for, creating a cluttered and disorganized streetscape that starkly contrasts with the neighborhood’s well-planned layout. Secondly, these boards contribute to traffic congestion and disruptions. Auto rickshaws parked haphazardly around these unauthorized stands obstruct the smooth flow of vehicles, turning once-orderly roads into a chaotic gridlock of frustrated commuters.
Furthermore, the presence of these boards challenges the fundamental principle of equality before the law. Their installation suggests a breach in established regulations, indicating that influential individuals can circumvent legal protocols, setting an undesirable precedent.
Despite the lower demand for rickshaws in this area, unregulated stands result in an excess of auto rickshaws parked in anticipation of passengers. Resident Haresh Bharwani expressed his concerns, emphasizing the need for PMC to use official sign boards at the Rickshaw Parking Stand and to increase organized auto rickshaw parking spaces in Kalyani Nagar. He also called on the Traffic Department to penalize auto rickshaws not parked in designated stands in line with vehicles parked in no-parking zones.
Rachna Aggarwal, Chairperson of Team Swachh Kalyani Nagar (TSKN), shed light on the issue, saying, “There aren’t many PMC-authorized rickshaw stands in Kalyani Nagar, but there are numerous illegal stands causing parking and traffic problems. They have even started a servant pick-and-drop service, which has led to additional traffic outside shops. Sometimes these rickshaw stands note the entry and exit timings of customers visiting the shops and make inappropriate comments as well. We hope PMC will take down the unauthorized stands, allocate designated spots, and put an end to this chaos.”
Yogesh Mullik, an ex-corporator, made a plea for the responsible use of such boards. He emphasized that if they were to be installed officially, they would ensure that they are authorized. He urged party workers not to install illegal stands in their name and called upon residents to reach out to him directly with their grievances.
When questioned about the issue, Hasham Patel, the anti-encroachment officer of PMC, assured that he would take the matter up with his seniors to investigate the legitimacy of these stands. If found to be illegal, they would take the necessary steps to have them removed.
