Ensure construction work doesn't turn hazardous

Hazardous material jutting out of the under-construction parking complex for the Railways keeps wary commuters on their toes, highlighted a report in this paper. Thane railway station's new parking lot may be a promising source of revenue for the Railways, but metal rods jutting out of the under-construction complex are giving commuters using the foot overbridge on one of the busiest station's western side a hard time.

Thane is one of the busiest suburban railway stations, handling over 6.54 lakh passengers daily with more than 1,000 trains passing through.

While the mega parking lot may decongest the area and also be a big revenue earner, care must be taken that all safety parameters are met during construction. Jutting iron rods at a site, which is so crowded with commuters, means to invite injury.

The jutting rods are also symptomatic of a larger malaise, a disregard for the public when projects are on, and an inability to see the larger picture. When projects are under construction or even during revamp, clear signboards must warn the public that work is on.

While we do see certain notices, there should be an increase in number and these should be clear and visible at night.

Mounds of debris, loose stones, unused material for infrastructure should not be left lying around.

These are familiar sights as work is undertaken.

The area should be as clear as possible and barricades must be in place so that people are not injured or liable to get injured in any way.

While facilities are being built for the people and for upping revenue, take care that this process is not counterproductive and proves dangerous for the very people it is being made for.

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