Congestion to roadside parking, Delhi traffic police targets ‘problem areas’

Delhi Police Commissioner Anurag Kumar has instructed the traffic unit to devise a strategy to address congestion, accident-prone areas and frequent traffic jams. Each traffic circle is responsible for pinpointing at least one problematic stretch, which may encompass areas marred by encroachments, roadside parking, or intense traffic flow.

The order, released a few days ago, urges a blend of enforcement, technical solutions, and public engagement. A senior officer stated the plan aims to alleviate congestion, optimize traffic flow, and reinforce road discipline. Traffic chiefs have been asked to pinpoint roads and segments that require top priority. Moreover, the traffic unit is tasked with launching zero-tolerance crackdowns on regular infractions such as triple riding, riding without helmets, and driving on the incorrect carriageway.

Kumar emphasized that persistent enforcement is crucial for promoting traffic discipline. The focus is on enhancing the visibility of traffic policing on the ground. Officials are being urged to heighten their presence, leverage communication tools more effectively, and utilize social media for traffic alerts and management messages.

Awareness campaigns in schools and colleges are also in the pipeline. "Sector-specific engagement plans should be formulated for entities like taxi operators, e-rickshaw drivers, and truck operators to encourage voluntary compliance and enlighten them about the repercussions of reckless driving and unauthorized parking," the officer added.

One potential enhancement to enforcement on Delhi's roads involves reviewing the authority to issue traffic challans. Currently, local police personnel need to seek approval from higher-ups to issue challans. This matter is currently under review by the Traffic Management Division. If approved, local police will be empowered to issue such challans.

Additionally, Kumar has instructed traffic authorities to deploy reserve personnel for integrated checks. These directives follow a recent incident where Kumar, during a general night patrolling prior to Independence Day, observed numerous vehicles parked on the loop connecting the RTR Flyover to the airport. Enraged by the parking on the flyover, he suspended the Delhi Cantonment Traffic Inspector, his Joint Duty Officer, and the sub-divisional in-charge at Vasant Vihar police station, and transferred them to the Police Lines.