Residents of Gotri, a locality in Vadodara, have raised their voices against the construction of an electric bus charging depot and a city bus depot. Armed with posters and black umbrellas, they gathered to express their concerns. They fear that the depot will put their lives at risk, especially with schools and residential areas nearby.
The Vadodara Municipal Corporation is currently working on this project. Bhavin Soni, a local resident, explained that the depot is being built on a plot owned by the corporation. Surrounding this site are numerous residential apartments and more than 15 housing societies where thousands of people live.
Many residents commute daily from this area, which adds to their concerns. Soni added that three meters away from the depot, there are small schools, including Gayatri School, Shanen School, and Shishav School, as well as several preschools for young children. Given this proximity, locals demand that the construction be halted immediately and relocated to a safer site.
Ravibhai Agarwal, another resident, highlighted that many people gathered at the depot site to protest. He stated that the bus depot in a residential area could endanger the lives of local citizens. He warned that if the depot is not moved, residents might boycott the upcoming elections.
Additionally, plans for an entry gate and three exit gates on the nearby TP road have raised alarm. Residents fear that once the buses start operating, accidents could occur, putting lives in danger. They insist that the construction of the bus depot stop and be moved to a different location.
The residents have given the municipal corporation a deadline of seven days to address their concerns. If the issues are not resolved, they plan to hold a significant protest march on Gandhi Chintan Road. They are also prepared to take legal action if necessary. Nitinbhai Donga, the corporator for Ward 10, visited the site to meet with the residents. He assured them that the city bus depot would not be built and that the gate on the TP road would not be constructed either. Donga promised to oppose the project if it proceeded as planned.
The residents are hopeful that their voices will be heard. They want a safe environment for their families and children. The situation in Gotri illustrates the importance of community engagement in urban planning. As cities grow, it is essential to balance development with the well-being of residents. The outcome of this protest may set a precedent for future projects in Vadodara and beyond.
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