Pune: Many People Missed Trains And Flights Due To Massive Traffic Disruptions By Maratha Morcha

Sumit Singh

Pune, 25th January 2024: In an unforeseen turn of events, the Maratha Reservation Morcha held in Pune on January 24 (Wednesday) resulted in widespread chaos, leaving hundreds stranded, missing trains, flights, and causing severe traffic jams across the city.

Transportation Nightmare:

More than 100 citizens were adversely affected, with reports of missed trains and flights due to the unexpected traffic gridlock. A group booking of 40 to 50 people on the 22150 Pune Ernakulam Express found themselves stuck in traffic, prompting railway officials to acknowledge the situation.

Railway Struggle:

Ravi Sharma, a passenger on the 22150 Pune Ernakulam Express, shared his ordeal, stating that he faced a three-hour delay reaching Pune Station from Ravet near Dehuroad. Railway officials confirmed that even their employees experienced delays, affecting their ability to board trains.

Airport Hassles:

Pune Airport officials said that on a normal day, 4 to 5 passengers miss flights due to various reasons. Akash Airlines took to social media to caution passengers about potential traffic congestion to Pune airport, urging them to plan for extra travel time.

Public Outcry:

Angry citizens took to social media to express their frustration. Anuraag Shrivastav emphasized the significant inconvenience caused by the morcha, stating that it hampers daily life, costing people time, money, and resources.

Concerns and Criticisms:

Several citizens, including Ranjan Sharma and Sandesh, echoed the sentiment that while the right to protest is acknowledged, the disruption caused by such events in a metropolitan city like Pune should be considered more responsibly. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on medical emergencies and other urgent situations.

Calls for Accountability:
Citizens like Suraj Chande questioned the justification of disrupting a city as large as Pune, especially considering potential emergencies. The sentiment on social media suggested a need for a balance between the right to protest and the responsibility not to impede essential services.