Nagpur: Citizens from Nagpur, Vidarbha and neighbouring states thronged Union minister Nitin Gadkari’s newly built Gadkari Wada in Mahal on Sunday for his first Janta Darbar at the venue in nearly nine years. The public grievance hearing, aimed at providing direct access to the Union minister, saw people submit representations on civic infrastructure, medical aid, welfare schemes, administrative delays and other public issues, with Gadkari directing officials to act on several complaints on the spot.Crowds began assembling well before the programme commenced, filling both floors of the ‘wada’ while queues spilt onto adjoining streets. Senior citizens, persons with disabilities, traders, social workers and representatives of religious and cultural organisations waited for hours to present their grievances and seek the minister’s intervention.Officials from Nagpur Municipal Corporation, Nagpur Improvement Trust, district collector’s office, and other govt departments were stationed at the venue to facilitate immediate action. Gadkari reviewed complaints individually and instructed officials to resolve several matters without delay. In urgent cases, particularly those related to medical assistance and pending administrative work, he personally telephoned concerned authorities and sought prompt action.The Janta Darbar also witnessed discussions on road connectivity, traffic management, civic amenities and local development projects. Merchant associations raised issues affecting businesses, while social and religious organisations highlighted administrative hurdles in implementing community initiatives.Young innovators also used the platform to present their ideas to the Union minister. Appreciating their efforts, Gadkari encouraged them to refine their proposals and assured them of guidance wherever required.The public outreach programme marked the return of Gadkari’s direct interaction with citizens at Mahal after a long gap, drawing one of the largest crowds seen at the venue in recent years.
