Lying in tatters, Panchkula guide maps leave commuters more lost than found

Defaced, torn and in some cases completely missing, guide maps put up in various sectors of the city are failing local commuters and tourists alike.

While a handful of new maps were installed by the municipal corporation (MC) in 2023, they are limited in scope and were positioned only on the Madhya Marg, offering little help to those entering from other access points.

As for as old guide maps boards, many placed near the entry-gates of various sectors have either been stolen by miscreants looking to sell them off as scrap or have been deface to no point of return.

The resident associations have received various requests from the public seeking the installation of new boards in each sector, including in across Ghaggar and MDC areas.

“The boards that were installed are not placed at palces where people actually need them,” said SK Nayar, president of the Citizens’ Welfare Association.

“We request the municipal commissioner and the mayor to address the issue. The current boards are difficult to see or read, and many residents simply don’t know where they are. We need multiple guide boards at key entry points in each sector so people can navigate easily.”

Arun Gupta, a resident of Sector 5, took not of the worsening condition, saying, “Many old guide map boards had either been vandalised or stolen, exacerbating the problem.”

Addressing the issue, Municipal Commissioner Aparajita said, “We will prepare an estimate on a case to case basis if required. We are open to the the public’s suggestions and welcome them if they come to us with any such issue.”

Local residents, meanwhile, have also been demanding the installation of additional map boards at static entry points and near commercial hubs like markets, where most guidance is needed.

The demand comes as part of broader calls for better infrastructure and citizen-friendly initiatives within the city.