Wathoda Police Register Case in Pardi Incident, Issue Notice to NHAI
Wathoda Police Station | Pardi Flyover Incident Nagpur: The recent incident at Nagpur’s newly inaugurated Pardi flyover has raised significant concerns about infrastructure safety. On Friday, a concrete chunk fell on a moving car, shattering its roof and windshield. The Wathoda police Station have since registered a case and are set to issue a notice to the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for accountability. This article delves into the incident, the authorities’ response, and the broader implications of such infrastructure failures.
Incident Overview
Concrete Chunk Falls on Moving SUV
On Friday afternoon, Vishesh Shrivastav was driving his SUV when an 8kg concrete chunk fell from the Pardi flyover, completely shattering his car’s windshield and roof. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the incident raised alarms about the structural integrity of the newly opened flyover.
Immediate Response by Authorities
Following the mishap, NHAI officials swiftly closed the Manewada and Central Avenue arms of the Pardi flyover. They also removed the loose concrete from the expansion joint to prevent further occurrences. However, concerns regarding the safety of the flyover continue to mount.
Legal Action Taken
Case Registered Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Wathoda police, led by Senior PI Harish Borade, have filed a case under section 324(5) of the BNS. While no specific individual has been held responsible yet, an investigation is underway to determine accountability.
Notice to NHAI for Accountability
The police will soon issue a notice to NHAI officials, demanding answers regarding the incident. If negligence is found, legal action may be taken against those responsible.
Another Incident on Pardi Flyover
Heavy Vehicle Accident on Central Avenue Arm
On Saturday, just a day after the concrete mishap, a heavy vehicle accident led to further traffic chaos. A truck carrying soil lost control after its front tire burst, causing it to cross the divider and ram into the side wall. The accident blocked one side of the flyover for several hours until a crane was brought in to remove the vehicle.
Police Response and Traffic Management
Senior PI Vinayak Koli of Nandanvan police station confirmed that no case had been registered yet for the truck accident. However, the mishap led to major traffic disruptions in the area.
Structural Concerns and Expert Opinions
Is the Pardi Flyover Structurally Safe?
NHAI sources insist that the flyover is structurally sound and that the falling concrete was an isolated issue. However, given the series of incidents within days of its opening, concerns remain high.
Expert Views on Flyover Construction
Infrastructure experts have pointed out that premature failures like falling concrete often result from rushed construction, substandard materials, or improper expansion joint maintenance. A thorough inspection of the flyover’s structural integrity is now essential.
Public Reactions and Concerns
Citizens Demand Accountability
Residents of Nagpur have voiced their concerns over social media, questioning how a newly constructed flyover could already be facing such critical issues. Many are demanding a comprehensive safety audit.
Impact on Daily Commuters
The recent mishaps have significantly impacted daily commuters, leading to delays, detours, and overall inconvenience. The trust in newly constructed infrastructure has taken a hit.
Government and NHAI’s Next Steps
Planned Inspections and Repairs
In response to public pressure, authorities are likely to conduct further inspections and maintenance work to ensure the flyover’s safety.
Policy Changes for Future Projects
The incident may lead to stricter quality checks and monitoring of ongoing infrastructure projects to prevent such failures in the future.
The Pardi flyover incidents have sparked serious concerns regarding infrastructure safety and accountability. With a police investigation underway and NHAI under scrutiny, it remains to be seen what measures will be implemented to prevent such occurrences in the future. Public demand for safer roads and stricter regulations on construction quality has never been louder.
1. What action has Wathoda police Station taken in the Pardi flyover incident?
The police have registered a case under section 324(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and are set to issue a notice to NHAI officials.
2. Why did the concrete chunk fall from the flyover?
The exact cause is still under investigation, but experts suspect poor construction quality or maintenance issues.
3. Has NHAI admitted any fault?
NHAI maintains that the bridge is structurally strong and claims the incident was an isolated case.
4. How did the truck accident on the flyover occur?
A truck carrying soil lost control after its front tire burst, crossed the divider, and crashed into the side wall, blocking one side of the flyover.
5. What steps are being taken to ensure safety?
Authorities are expected to conduct inspections, remove weak structural elements, and implement stricter quality controls for future projects.
