ANJALI YADAV / Dehradun
Flyovers built to ease traffic congestion in Doon have also resulted in another issue with the spaces under them increasingly being occupied by illegally parked vehicles, roadside vendors and encroachments, raising concerns over public safety and poor civic management.
Residents allege that large stretches of land under various flyovers have been taken over for private and commercial use. Vehicles belonging to nearby commercial establishments and their customers are routinely parked there, while vendors have set up carts and temporary stalls, turning public space into unregulated parking and commercial zones. Locals also point to a more serious issue after sunset. Such areas often lack CCTV surveillance and adequate street lighting, making these spaces vulnerable to anti-social activities. Residents claim that some of these poorly lit areas have become gathering spots for people consuming alcohol and engaging in other unlawful activities at night.
Ajabpur resident Deepak Rana said that vehicles belonging to nearby hotels and institutions are frequently parked under the flyover on Haridwar bypass. He added that some vehicles linked to a private hospital can also be seen parked there. “Parking is a major issue in this area. People are using the space under the flyover because there are limited alternatives,” he said.
Roadside vendor Suresh Kumar said that he operates under the flyover primarily to escape the harsh summer heat. “It is difficult to stand in the open during the day. The flyover provides shade, which is why many vendors choose this location,” he said.
Local resident Pratham Rawat said that many vehicle owners prefer parking under flyovers as they believe it is safer than leaving vehicles on busy roads. “Parking under the flyover reduces the risk of accidental damage from passing traffic,” he said.
Residents have urged the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun, police and other departments concerned to reclaim encroached spaces and ensure better use in public interest, regulate parking, install CCTV cameras and improve street lighting under flyovers. They also stressed on the need for planned parking infrastructure to address the city’s growing parking demand.
