In Kalyani Nagar, concerned residents are fervently calling upon local authorities to facilitate the safe relocation of beggars and homeless individuals who have established makeshift encampments along the area’s roads. These encampments not only affect the locality’s cleanliness and visual appeal but also pose a safety risk to these vulnerable populations, particularly concerning potential hit-and-run incidents.
These makeshift encampments typically feature clothes hung on bus stops, scattered litter due to a lack of sanitation facilities, and individuals smoking in proximity to both residential and corporate structures. This situation has increasingly disrupted the harmonious coexistence between residents and corporate employees in the area.
One of the primary concerns raised by residents is the safety and well-being of the homeless individuals themselves. Frequently found lying on the road, they are at risk of accidents, particularly hit-and-run incidents. Residents contend that these individuals deserve safer and improved living conditions, just like anyone else.
Jaffar Iqbal, Trustee of Team Swatch Kalyani Nagar, shared his concerns, “A few days ago, I found a beggar inebriated and unconscious on the road. He could have easily fallen victim to a speeding car late at night. Their settlement under the metro bridge is highly unsafe, and their littering in the area is a nuisance. We have reached out to the local ward office several times over the past year for their relocation, but to no avail.”
Divesh Agarwal, CEO of Aumni Techworks and a local resident, explained, “We frequently encounter beggars entering our premises, soliciting money, and smoking near both corporate and residential buildings. While we empathize with their plight, their current presence alongside the roadside jeopardizes their lives and disrupts the cleanliness and overall ambiance of our neighborhood. Despite raising the issue with PMC Officer Somnath Banker, followed by some officials visiting the area, nothing has been done so far. The problem persists.”
Residents have taken a proactive stance by repeatedly engaging with local authorities, seeking the intervention of their local Ward office to address the situation. They hope that their plea for a safer relocation will benefit all parties involved, ensuring the welfare of the homeless and the tranquility of Kalyani Nagar.
At the time of writing, PMC authorities have not provided comments on the issue.
