The Low Carbon Mobility Network-Nagpur and the Centre for Sustainable Development (CFSD) launched a campaign to enhance the frequency of bus services and establish necessary infrastructure in Chikhali Basti. This campaign aimed to improve public transportation accessibility for residents, addressing the challenges they face due to infrequent bus services and inadequate bus stop infrastructure.
Initial Findings
During initial visits to Pangul Basti, Chikhali Devasthan, Rahul Gandhi Nagar, and Mata Mandir, it was found that:
- Bus services in the area are minimal, with buses running only twice a day at 9 am and 3 pm.
- There are no proper bus stops, forcing residents to wait on the roadside without protection from the elements.
- Due to the low bus frequency, residents often walk 3 to 4 km or use private vehicles to reach their destinations.
- In emergencies, residents resort to costly alternatives like auto rickshaws, which are unaffordable for many in this low-income community.
Campaign Goals
In response to these findings, the network launched a "demand card" campaign. The key demands addressed to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) included:
- Increasing bus frequency during working hours and school times.
- Ensuring inclusivity for all residents.
- Increasing the number of bus stops in the area.
- Installing basic infrastructure such as seating areas, proper shades, and displaying bus timetables.
On-Ground Campaign Activities (20.04.2024 - 27.04.2024)
Day 1: April 20, 2024
The campaign commenced with the field visit to Chikhali Basti by the CFSD team with an aim to engage primarily with the women of the Basti to explain the campaign and the activities that would be planned and also discuss the impact of inadequate bus services. The team emphasised the importance of community support to demand better services from the Municipal Corporation.
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Day 2: April 22, 2024
The campaign team visited homes to introduce the campaign. Children expressed the difficulties they face due to the lack of bus stops and infrequent bus services, highlighting the need for immediate improvements.
Day 3: April 23, 2024
The day began near the Hanuman Mandir, starting with prayers and followed by various games for children, such as musical chairs and hopscotch. This day aimed to draw curiosity and participation from the community.
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Day 4: April 24, 2024
The day started with prayers and an introduction session where children discussed their challenges with transportation. A game of Snake and Ladder focused on air pollution was conducted to educate and engage the kids.
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Day 5: April 25, 2024
A drawing competition was held, where children illustrated their ideas about transportation. This was followed by a game where they completed a half-drawn picture of a bus while blindfolded, encouraging creativity and awareness.
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Day 6: April 26, 2024
A craft competition involved making paper flowers, buses, lamps, and trees. Children shared their crafting techniques with each other, fostering a sense of community and cooperation.
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Day 7: April 27, 2024
The final day featured a rally organised by the children and women's groups of Chikhali Basti. The rally aimed to raise awareness about the poor state of bus transportation. Participants prepared slogans and shared their demands. The day concluded with a meeting led by Leena Buddhe from the Centre for Sustainable Development, explaining the campaign's objectives and the importance of community support. Gifts were distributed to competition winners.
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Outcomes
During the on-ground campaign, over 1,000 demand cards were signed by young adults, elders, and school-going children. These cards have been submitted to the Commissioner of the Nagpur Municipal Corporation, and follow-ups with officials will be conducted to ensure the campaign's goals are met.
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Observations
The campaign highlighted a significant need for improved bus services and infrastructure in Chikhali Basti. The positive response to the signature drive indicates strong community support. The economic conditions in the Basti are challenging, with inadequacies in cleanliness and education, further emphasising the need for better public transportation services.
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Media coverage
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