The two-and-a-half kilometre Goshree-Chathiath stretch is turning a hotspot for anti-social activities and flesh trade during night hours, say the local people. The green cover and deserted and dark road make things easier for anti-social elements. “The area offers a wonderful view of the backwaters. Earlier, many people used to come here to enjoy the scenic beauty. However, with the rise in such activities, people rarely come here. Selling of ganja and flesh trade are so rampant in the area,” says Antony Puthur, a social activist in the area.
Local people allege that the authorities are turning a blind eye towards the issue and have taken no steps to fix street lights on the stretch.
According to Circle Inspector Muhammad Rafeek, it is the lack of street lights that leads to anti-social activities. When asked about the measures taken against such activities, the traffic officials had nothing to tell.
Though the Goshree-Chathiath stretch was built more than five years ago, the authorities have not yet installed street lights or reflectors along the road.
Accidents on the Rise
The lack of street lights on the entire stretch is causing accidents. “The medians are broken at several places along the stretch after vehicles rammed into them,” Antony said. Many students practice skating during morning hours and the lack of street light and reflectors compromise the safety of students,” he said.
Meanwhile, District Collector P I Sheik Pareeth has said that all issues regarding the road will be resolved within a month. “Street lights and reflectors will be set up along the stretch within a month. More than 20 street lights will be installed,” he said.