‘No Right Turn’ Returns on Wardha Road from Monday: Traffic Update for Nagpur Motorists
Nagpur’s busy Wardha Road will soon see the return of the ‘No Right Turn’ measure during peak hours, as per the latest notification issued by the Traffic Department. This traffic regulation aims to manage the congestion experienced during the evening rush. If you’re a Nagpur commuter, you’ll want to take note of these changes to avoid getting caught in traffic jams.
What’s the New Traffic Rule on Wardha Road?
The Traffic Department has reinstated the rule that prohibits right turns on Wardha Road during peak hours—specifically between 6:30 PM and 8:30 PM from Monday to Saturday. This decision, announced by Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Archit Chandak, will remain in place until further notice.
The Initial Trial Run
Between September 23 and 28, the department conducted a trial run to stop right turns and U-turns at key junctions, such as Rahate Square and Kriplani Square. The goal? To ease traffic congestion on one of Nagpur’s busiest roads. The results were promising, with several motorists reporting reduced travel times, especially on the stretch from Morris College T-point to Ajni Square via the Gowari Flyover. What used to take 25 minutes was reduced to just 6 minutes.
The Benefits of the ‘No Right Turn’ Rule
1. Reduced Travel Times
One of the most praised outcomes of the trial was the drastic reduction in travel times. Motorists commuting between major points on Wardha Road noticed significant time savings, making daily commutes much more manageable.
2. Smoother Flow of Traffic
The trial run led to smoother traffic flow on the main road. By stopping right turns, the traffic department effectively reduced vehicle buildup at crucial intersections, allowing for more streamlined movement.
The Downsides: Congestion on Internal Roads
While the measure succeeded on the main road, some internal roads, particularly in Dhantoli and Ramdaspeth, began experiencing congestion. With fewer turn options on Wardha Road, motorists started using these smaller roads as detours, causing traffic backups in otherwise quiet neighborhoods.
Smart City Data Insights
According to Smart City Data Analysis, 80% to 90% of motorists during the 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM period travel towards Ajni Square. The analysis suggests that the trial helped these drivers considerably, which is why the department decided to continue with the ‘No Right Turn’ rule.
New Traffic Rules Explained
1. No Right Turns at Rahate Colony and Kriplani Square
Motorists will no longer be able to make right turns or U-turns at Rahate Colony Square and Kriplani Square during peak hours.
2. Alternative Routes for Motorists
Drivers coming from Deekshabhoomi Road towards Ajni Railway Station will need to take a U-turn at Lokmat Square. Similarly, motorists wanting to cross Wardha Road from Kriplani Square for Deekshabhoomi will need to make a U-turn at the divider in front of Central Jail or Ajni Square.
Why Are These Measures Necessary?
Wardha Road is one of the busiest roads in Nagpur, especially during peak hours. The volume of vehicles often leads to significant delays, particularly at junctions where right turns are common. The reintroduction of the ‘No Right Turn’ measure is designed to alleviate some of this congestion and improve traffic flow on the main road.
How This Impacts You as a Motorist
If you frequently travel on Wardha Road, you’ll need to plan your route carefully during the designated hours. The changes are meant to help ease traffic on the main road but may require you to take longer routes to your destination. While this may seem inconvenient, the overall time saved on your commute could be worth the detour.
How Long Will These Measures Last?
As of now, there’s no set end date for this rule. The Traffic Department will continue monitoring the situation and may make adjustments based on how well the measures reduce congestion. For now, it’s best to assume that this rule will be in place for the foreseeable future.
What Can Be Done to Improve the Situation?
The department has acknowledged the congestion on internal roads and may explore solutions to mitigate the traffic buildup in areas like Dhantoli and Ramdaspeth. As traffic patterns continue to evolve, further adjustments may be made to balance the flow between main and internal roads.
The ‘No Right Turn’ rule on Wardha Road is a step towards better managing the city’s growing traffic issues. While it has its drawbacks, particularly for those living near internal roads, the benefits of smoother traffic flow on the main road are clear. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler on Wardha Road, adapting to these changes will help you navigate through the city with greater ease.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why has the ‘No Right Turn’ rule been reinstated?
- The rule aims to ease traffic congestion on Wardha Road during peak hours by restricting right turns at busy intersections.
- What are the peak hours for this rule?
- The rule is in effect from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Monday through Saturday.
- How long will this rule be in place?
- The rule will remain in place until further notice, though the Traffic Department will monitor its effectiveness.
- What should I do if I need to make a right turn on Wardha Road?
- You’ll need to take a U-turn at designated points, such as Lokmat Square or Ajni Square.
- Is there any alternative to avoid traffic on Wardha Road?
- It’s recommended to use internal roads cautiously or plan your trip outside the peak hours to avoid congestion.
