Residents to Hold Rasta Roko Protest in NIBM After Teen’s Death Linked to Tanker Issue
Mohammadwadi, 10th April 2026: A peaceful Rasta Roko agitation has been organized by residents of NIBM, Anandvan Parisar, Mohammadwadi, and nearby societies following the tragic death of a 19-year-old youth, Aariz Sheikh, allegedly caused by reckless water tanker movement in the area.
The protest is scheduled to take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Anandvan area. Citizens from multiple housing societies and local communities are expected to gather in large numbers to demand stricter action against what they describe as the growing menace of the “tanker mafia.”
Residents claim that unregulated tanker operations, overspeeding, and negligent driving have made internal roads highly unsafe, leading to repeated accidents. The recent incident, which claimed a young life, has intensified public anger and triggered collective action.
The agitation aims to raise strong concerns before authorities including the Police Department, Traffic Division, and municipal officials, urging immediate intervention.
Key Demands of the Protesters:
Strict legal action against those responsible for the fatal incident
Regulation of tanker movement, especially in residential zones
Improved road safety measures, including speed breakers, proper lighting, and traffic monitoring
A senior journalist residing in the area said,
“This is not just about one accident. It reflects a deeper failure in regulating tanker operations. If immediate action is not taken, more innocent lives will be at risk.”
Social worker Jaymala Dhankikar also expressed concern, saying: “Residents have been raising this issue for a long time. Unfortunately, it took a tragedy for the authorities to take notice. This protest is a call for accountability and safer living conditions.”
Authorities have been informed about the protest, and police presence is expected to ensure that the demonstration remains peaceful while maintaining traffic control in the area.
The protest is being seen as a collective stand by citizens demanding safer roads and accountability in rapidly developing residential zones of Pune.
