Barricades, bamboo poles and blanket no-parking zones around the counting centre forced two-wheelers and senior citizens to trek under the sun
'No Parking’ boards blocked nearly all spots, forcing people to park far or keep circling. Pic/Amarjeet Singh
Counting day at Agri Koli Bhavan, Nerul, turned into chaos outside the centre, leaving residents, commuters and party workers frustrated and stranded.
Nearly 20 ‘No Parking’ boards were put up, blocking almost every parking spot nearby. With no alternative parking announced, people had to park far away or keep driving in circles.
Most roads were also blocked with bamboo poles and metal barricades, turning the area into a maze. Two-wheelers, senior citizens and media personnel struggled to reach the centre, often walking long distances under the sun.
“There was no system, no guidance — only boards everywhere saying ‘No Parking’. Is this planning or punishment?” asked Shahid Khan, a resident who witnessed the chaos.
Party workers argued with police and home guards over parking, but strict orders were followed, leading to heated exchanges. Commuters also had to move vehicles repeatedly, even after parking far away. Even narrow internal lanes were blocked, leaving residents struggling to step out of their own buildings.
“Security is important, but this was excessive and badly planned. You can’t block an entire neighbourhood without informing people,” said Sunny Pandey, a political worker present at the venue.
Pankaj Benvanshi, who was at the centre for professional work, added, “I parked my bike almost a kilometre away. For anyone covering the counting or accompanying candidates, this was mentally and physically draining.”
Residents complained that no prior intimation was given about road closures, delaying office-goers, shopkeepers and even essential services, despite the counting day being a known, scheduled event.
While counting progressed peacefully inside Agri Koli Bhavan, the streets outside reflected a failure of coordination, turning a democratic exercise into a day-long ordeal for the public.
Citizens are now demanding accountability, planning and designated parking zones, warning that tight security cannot come at the cost of public convenience.
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