Pune: Residents living near Wakdewadi ST bus stand are facing severe disturbances due to round-the-clock loudspeaker announcements meant for passengers. Many students and senior citizens are struggling to cope with the constant noise, making daily life difficult.
Adding to the residents' woes are traffic congestion, unauthorized parking, roadside food stalls, and poor sanitation outside the bus stand.
Originally, the Shivajinagar ST bus stand was relocated to Wakdewadi for renovation. However, despite six years passing, the bus stand has not been moved back, leading to increased noise pollution and disruption in the area.
A Once Peaceful Area Now Disrupted
Wakdewadi, once known for its calm and eco-friendly environment, has turned into a chaotic zone with continuous loudspeaker announcements and heavy traffic.
The bus stand is surrounded by over 150 residential societies with 2,000+ residents. Around 700 ST buses operate daily, carrying 15,000+ passengers. Public announcements are made throughout the night, disturbing the residents.
Key Issues Raised by Residents
24-hour loudspeaker announcements at the bus stand
Encroachments by street vendors and fruit sellers on roads
Illegal parking of private buses, cabs, and auto-rickshaws
ST buses blocking entrances of residential societies
Pedestrians struggling due to open urination on footpaths
Residents Express Their Concerns
_"Wakdewadi was once a quiet and environmentally friendly area. Now, it is filled with non-stop announcements, shouting, and noise, disturbing our sleep." _
— Mohan Baglane, Local Resident
"Illegal parking is a major issue. Two-wheelers get fined, but four-wheelers parked illegally remain untouched. The entire area from Reshim Industrial Center to Bajaj Showroom is occupied by private buses."
— Bipinchandra Chougule, Local Resident
Arun Siya, Divisional Controller, Maharashtra State Transport Department (Pune Division), assured that the volume of announcements will be reduced, especially at night, and measures will be taken to ease traffic congestion in coordination with traffic police.