Streetlights, road quality, top grievances at Gadkari’s janta darbar

Nagpur: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's monthly Janta Darbar again emerged as a key platform for citizens to flag everyday civic concerns, with residents from across Nagpur and even neighbouring districts turning up to seek redressal of long-pending issues. Poor street lighting, deteriorating roads, and land ownership disputes dominated the representations made by the public.A significant number of complaints pertained to non-functional or inadequate streetlights, particularly in residential pockets. Residents of Samta Nagar highlighted that poorly lit roads and internal lanes have become a major safety concern, especially for women, senior citizens and daily commuters. Citizens urged immediate repairs and installation of additional streetlights to improve visibility and prevent accidents and crime.Road infrastructure featured prominently among the grievances. Residents from Bhim Nagar and Bhilgaon in North Nagpur complained that recently laid roads were uneven and had begun deteriorating within a short period. They alleged poor quality of work and lack of supervision during construction. Some demanded that the damaged stretches be repaved, while others stressed the need for stricter quality control, better planning and accountability to ensure that new roads are durable and safe.Land ownership disputes also surfaced at the Janata Darbar. Zulekha Sheikh, a resident of Mominpura, alleged that despite her family residing on the land for over five decades, the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT) is refusing to recognise their ownership. "We purchased the land through a valid sale deed, built our house, paid taxes regularly and have been living here legally. Now, NIT suddenly claims the land belongs to them," she said. Sheikh clarified that residents are not opposing development projects but are seeking fair compensation, damages or alternative land if their properties are required. The Janata Darbar also saw participation from senior citizens and Divyang persons. Senior citizens submitted representations seeking assistance and smoother access to govt welfare schemes. Gadkari instructed officials present to extend cooperation in matters related to schemes such as Shravanbal and Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Yojana. Divyang representatives raised demands for artificial limbs and support under various govt schemes.In addition, representatives from several social, religious and community organisations approached Gadkari with issues related to funding, space allocation, and statutory permissions. Many organisations sought govt support for community welfare activities and infrastructure needs. Gadkari listened to the representations in detail and directed concerned departments to examine the issues and take appropriate action.Officials from the Nagpur Municipal Corporation, district collector's office, Nagpur Improvement Trust, health department and other agencies were present at the Janata Darbar, enabling on-the-spot coordination and follow-up.