PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / Dehradun
The temporary sun shade structure installed by the Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) near Rispana bridge on Haridwar Road to provide relief from the summer heat has become ineffective within days of its installation, leaving the commuters exposed to the direct sunlight once again.
The shelter, made using bamboo poles and green netting, was introduced as part of the corporation’s efforts to protect people waiting for buses and other public transport vehicles from the spiralling temperatures. The Rispana bridge area was selected due to its high pedestrian movement and public transport activity. The civic body had also planned to install similar shelters at other high-footfall locations across the city.
However, the commuters said that while the initiative offered temporary relief, a more durable and long-term solution is required. Many daily commuters and labourers continue to wait in the open during the peak summer hours after the structure became damaged.
Sahil Kumar, a labourer, who was found waiting for transport near the bridge, said that standing under the scorching sun while waiting for buses and Vikrams remains difficult. He said that the temporary shade had provided some relief and hoped that a permanent arrangement would be developed to protect the commuters from the extreme heat-triggered discomfort.
Another commuter, Preeti Rajput said that waiting for public transport under the blazing sun is becoming increasingly uncomfortable due to rising temperatures. She said that the green shade had been beneficial while it remained in place and urged authorities to repair and reinstall it properly.
Asked for comment, the Dehradun municipal commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey said that the damaged structure would be repaired soon. “We will not let people stand and wait in the heat during the summer days. Similar shelters will also be installed at other locations with high pedestrian footfall as part of efforts to improve commuter convenience and provide protection from harsh weather conditions,” he added.
