Congress Leader Pawan Dewan raises alarm over worsening Malhar road parking crisis
Babushahi Bureau
Ludhiana (Punjab), December 16, 2025: Senior Congress leader and former Chairman of the Punjab Large Industrial Development Board, Pawan Dewan, has expressed deep concern over the escalating parking and traffic problems on Malhar Road, one of Ludhiana’s busiest thoroughfares.
In a statement issued today, Dewan said the issue has reached a critical level, causing daily inconvenience for shopkeepers, residents, and visitors, along with traffic congestion, safety risks, and disruption of commercial activities.
Dewan highlighted that Malhar Road, once envisioned as a smooth-flowing corridor, has become a bottleneck due to inadequate parking infrastructure. “The absence of a structured parking plan leads to haphazard vehicle stoppages and frequent quarrels among commuters. This is not merely an inconvenience; it reflects a failure of the Municipal Corporation,” he said.
He added that customers often avoid visiting Malhar Road, affecting the livelihood of shopkeepers and service providers who depend on footfall. “Parking is not a luxury. The Municipal Corporation must recognize it as an essential requirement to sustain urban commerce,” Dewan emphasized.
Calling for urgent action, Dewan suggested developing multi-level parking facilities along Malhar Road and introducing smart parking solutions with digital monitoring, in consultation with local stakeholders, to ensure a practical and sustainable resolution.
Stressing Ludhiana’s role as Punjab’s industrial capital, Dewan warned that neglecting Malhar Road would set a poor precedent for urban planning. He urged the Corporation to act decisively to restore order and convenience for the public.
Demanding accountability, Dewan reminded officials that effective governance requires anticipating challenges and providing solutions. “The people of Ludhiana deserve better. Congress stands with citizens and traders in demanding immediate intervention. The parking chaos must end, and Malhar Road must be restored as a vibrant, accessible hub,” he concluded.