Bhopal: Construction of the Bhopal Metro’s Blue Line at Roshanpura intersection has raised concerns over traffic congestion, pedestrian safety and public inconvenience ahead of the festive season, particularly near New Market, which hosts one of the state capital’s most visited Durga Puja pandals.The Blue Line contractor moved closer to the intersection over the past week, prompting concerns over the timing of the work.“Given the context, the work could have been postponed until after the festive season. The public is already facing inconvenience, and the situation becomes more difficult when so many people visit New Market during Durga Puja,” a trader said.Construction has reduced road space, making vehicular movement through the busy intersection increasingly difficult. The affected stretch extends about three kilometres from Jawahar Chowk to Minto Hall through Roshanpura.Traffic congestion has added to commuters’ concerns as residents and visitors prepare for the festival, when footfall around the New Market pandal is expected to rise.“At Jawahar Chowk there is no space to walk. Pedestrian walkway has been demolished to pave way for vehicular movement,” said Nidhi, who works at a nearby private hospital.Visitors to nearby markets and pandals have to navigate crowded roads alongside moving vehicles and construction activity, while shopkeepers are concerned about customer access and the impact of congestion on business during the festive period.The MPMRCL public relations officer did not respond when asked about arrangements to manage construction-related restrictions and increased festival traffic.With Durga Puja approaching, coordination between Metro authorities, traffic police and local businesses will be crucial to ensuring safe access to the pandal without worsening congestion.