Team Goemkarponn
Valpoi: Following rising public anger over unchecked heavy traffic through the village of Keri in Sattari, local authorities have announced that liquor stores in the area will remain closed from 10 pm to 8 am.
The move comes amid increasing unrest among residents who have threatened to take matters into their own hands if action is not taken.
Citizens have expressed frustration over the continuous flow of heavy vehicles on the highway, which remains open from 5 AM to 10 PM. At a tense village meeting, residents warned that they would resort to damaging vehicles if the traffic situation continues to be ignored.
The outcry follows recent incidents of vandalism in Keri, which further escalated tensions. In response, the local Panchayat convened a joint meeting on Thursday with officials from various departments to discuss the issue and propose immediate steps to curb the traffic chaos.
Villagers reiterated their demand for the highway checkpoint to be shut down, alleging that the concerned government department has failed to maintain proper control. The demand also included the closure of commercial shops — particularly liquor outlets — from 5 AM to 10 PM.
Authorities have taken note. The police confirmed that the order regarding shop closures will be implemented. The meeting was attended by Sarpanch Supriya Gavas, Deputy Sarpanch Usman Syed, other Panchayat members, Sub-Inspector Prathamesh Gavas, and Traffic Department officer Akhil Pokle.
Local leaders have warned of “serious consequences” if the demands are not addressed swiftly.
