Nagpur: The city’s much-publicized Heat Action Plan has come under scrutiny as the installation of green net shades at key intersections faces delays, poor execution, and now structural damage caused by strong winds.

The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) had proposed installing green shade nets at 18 major junctions to provide relief to commuters and pedestrians during extreme heat. However, the project—estimated at ₹65 lakh—is drawing criticism for alleged mismanagement and limited on-ground impact.

Incomplete Work and Limited Relief

At several locations where the nets have been installed, commuters say the relief is minimal. The shades are mounted on temporary bamboo frames, covering only small patches while leaving most of the road exposed to direct sunlight.

Key stretches like Central Avenue, particularly from Vaishno Devi Chowk to Mayo Hospital Chowk, remain largely unshaded despite intense afternoon heat, especially around metro pillars.

Meanwhile, busy intersections such as Wardhaman Nagar Chowk have yet to see any installation, leaving pedestrians without relief.

Traffic Disruptions Across Major Junctions

Instead of easing conditions, the structures have reportedly worsened traffic congestion at several points:

• At Tukdoji Putla Chowk, a crucial free left turn has been completely blocked by bamboo supports, forcing vehicles to halt mid-road.
• Along the stretch near Ajni Police Station toward Reshimbagh, vehicles are struggling to navigate around obstructive frames.
• At Telephone Exchange Chowk, nets have been installed nearly 15 feet before the zebra crossing, rendering them ineffective for drivers waiting at signals.

Commuters report that instead of providing shade, these installations are creating bottlenecks and increasing signal wait times.

Poor Planning at Key Locations

At Chitaroli Chowk, bamboo frames near Renuka Temple are partially blocking the roadway. Similarly, near the Rajendra Prasad Statue, vehicles remain exposed to direct sunlight despite nearby installations.

At Vaishno Devi Chowk, where nets cover two sections, traffic signals often operate in blinking mode, raising questions about the effectiveness and planning of the project.

Strong Winds Cause Structural Damage

Adding to the concerns, recent strong winds have reportedly damaged and destabilized several of these temporary bamboo structures, raising safety risks for commuters. In some areas, loosened nets and tilted frames have further obstructed traffic and created potential hazards for pedestrians and motorists alike.

Public Frustration Mounts

Drivers and daily commuters have voiced frustration, stating that the initiative, instead of offering respite from the heat, has intensified both traffic congestion and safety concerns.

What was envisioned as a citizen-friendly heat mitigation effort is now facing criticism for poor planning, delayed execution, and vulnerability to weather conditions. With rising temperatures and increasing public dissatisfaction, calls are growing for the administration to reassess the project’s design and implementation before further expansion.