Electric poles on Chimur footpaths force pedestrians onto busy state highways

Electric poles and iron structures of the power network stand on the footpaths along state highways in Chimur town, raising concerns about public safety. The path built for pedestrians has been taken over by the power infrastructure, and people are forced to walk on the main road.

As a result, the risk of accidents has increased. Residents are questioning the way Mahavitaran and the Public Works Department (PWD) go about their work.

The state highways in the town see heavy traffic through the day. Heavy vehicles, two-wheelers and cars pass continuously, and many travel at high speed. The poles and iron structures on the footpaths act as obstructions, so pedestrians have to leave the safe path and walk straight into the stream of vehicles. The situation is even more dangerous for the elderly, women and small children.

Residents are asking whether the footpath was taken into account when the power network was set up. They also ask how such obstructions were allowed to remain on the path, and who is responsible for checking the safety of these poles.

There is anger over whether the problem has arisen from a lack of coordination between Mahavitaran and the PWD, or whether the departments concerned are deliberately ignoring it. People are also asking what use a footpath is, which is meant for safe travel, if it is blocked by obstructions. They ask whether the administration will wake up only after a serious accident.

The matter concerns people's lives and needs to be taken seriously. Mahavitaran and the PWD should carry out a joint inspection and immediately remove the obstructions created by poles and iron structures on the footpaths. Arrangements should also be made for pedestrians to walk safely. Otherwise, the possibility of an innocent person losing their life because of the departments' neglect cannot be ruled out.