‘Azad Chowk’, the heart of Dhanpuri, is in distress. Despite the budget of crores, the heart of the city is yearning for development.

Dhanpuri. Azad Chowk, which is called the heart of the city, has today reached an extreme state of disrepair. The lack of basic facilities at this major intersection connecting four wards, where the city’s lifeline Amarkantak Road passes, clearly exposes the negligence of those responsible. There is pressure of hundreds of small and big vehicles here in the morning and evening. Despite this, the situation remains zero in the name of traffic system, security and passenger facilities.

Traffic pressure, chaos prevails

There is a jam-like situation at the square throughout the day. The problem becomes worse due to unorganized parking and roadside encroachment. But neither any concrete plan nor any effective action is visible in this direction.

No arrangements for passengers

There is not even a mini bus stop at such an important intersection. Passengers have to stand on the roadside and wait for vehicles. Elderly people, women and children are most troubled due to lack of seating arrangements.

Lack of drinking water, increasing problems

There is no drinking water facility at the Chowk during summer season. There is a hand pump installed which has been closed for years. Pedestrians have to wander for water, due to which questions are being raised on the arrangements of the municipality.

square drowning in darkness

As the evening approaches, the picture of the square becomes more frightening. Due to faulty and switched off street lights, dust, the entire area gets immersed in darkness, due to which the risk of accidents increases manifold. Till date, CCTV cameras have not been installed at the busiest intersections of the city. In such a situation, in case of any untoward incident, neither monitoring is possible nor investigation is easy.

The fountain became a symbol of neglect

The fountain built after spending lakhs of rupees remains closed when needed during summer. This fountain, which once glittered with colorful lights, today is only testifying to administrative negligence.

Big difference between promise and reality

Claims for beautification and development of the square were made several times by the councilors and the Municipal Corporation Vice President, but till now no plan has come to fruition.

When will the public anger improve at Azad Chowk?

There is deep resentment among the city residents. He says that despite a budget of crores of rupees every year, ignoring the most important place of the city is beyond comprehension.

conclusion

This poor condition of Azad Chowk is raising big questions on the functioning of the city administration. Now the time has come that the responsible authorities should pay serious attention to this, so that this heart of the city can get back its identity and dignity.