WIDENING OF CHAKRATA ROAD

Shopkeepers against giving up extra space 

Dehradun January 5
A team of shopkeepers from Chakrata Road met vice-chairman, Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA), today to discuss their reservation regarding leaving two metres more space from the remaining part of the demolished shops on the road.

VC, BVRC Purushottam, tried to drive home the fact that the space was necessary for parking purpose. The shopkeepers were not content with his explanation and insisted on not giving up any more space. They said they would not tolerate any more demolition of their shops. Shashikant Goyal, president of the Chakrata Road Shopkeepers’ Association, said: “We are hardly left with eight metres of the remaining area. If we leave two metres from it, then we will not be left with much space. Therefore, no one is willing to abide by the MDDA’s direction in this regard.”

The VC said he would clear the MDDA’s stand on the issue in two to three days. Meanwhile, all the 10 mobile towers stood tall over RGM Plaza and were not removed even today. The notices have already been served to the tower owners but they have not come forward in removing them. It is only the Plaza which remains to be demolished on the road as rest of the buildings have been cleared. Others whose shops have been demolished are angry at the authorities for sparing RGM Plaza and are airing their displeasure openly.

The traffic, was, however, opened on the Chakrata Road as the debris has been removed from the road.

The MDDA officials have prepared a new plan for the Chakrata Road, according to which the road will be made six lane instead of four lane as was proposed earlier. The road will be decorated with plants on both the sides and ample footpath area would be provided.