Traffic Police to Decongest Roads in Nagpur’s Bustling Markets Amid Diwali Festivities

Itwari Market: The bustling streets of Nagpur’s markets are a sight to behold during the festive season. With Diwali just around the corner, popular marketplaces like Itwari, Sitabuldi, and Mahal are bursting at the seams with shoppers, creating significant traffic congestion. As citizens gear up for the celebrations, the traffic police department, led by DCP Archit Chandak, has stepped in to decongest these areas.

In this article, we will explore the measures taken by the traffic police to manage the surge in shoppers, alleviate traffic jams, and ensure a smoother experience for citizens and visitors alike.

What Led to the Traffic Congestion?

As the Diwali shopping rush intensifies, roads near major markets in Nagpur are becoming heavily congested. Thousands of shoppers from the city and surrounding regions are flooding into these markets, leading to overcrowding and significant traffic issues. Itwari Market, in particular, is seeing record numbers of people, with shoppers parking their vehicles along the narrow streets, exacerbating the situation.

Measures Taken by the Traffic Police

To tackle the problem, DCP Archit Chandak held a meeting with local traders on Monday and devised a comprehensive traffic management plan. The primary goal is to decongest market areas during peak shopping hours, which span from October 22 to November 5, between 11 AM and 11 PM daily.

Banning Autos and Cars on Key Roads

As part of the initiative, the traffic police have issued a notification banning autos and cars on some of the most congested roads in Itwari. These roads will now be reserved for two-wheelers, pedestrians, and cyclists.

One-Way and Two-Way Traffic Routes

To further streamline traffic flow, several routes will be restricted to one-way traffic only for two-wheelers. These include:

• Sona Restaurant Square to Gandhibagh Square
• Nangaputla Square to Tanga Stand Square
• Shahid Square to Teen-nal Square

Additionally, autos and cars will be completely banned from two-way traffic on several major routes, such as:

• Shaheed Square to Gandhi Putla Square
• Teen-nal Square to Nangaputla Square

These changes aim to reduce bottlenecks, allowing smoother passage for pedestrians and cyclists while ensuring that two-wheelers can move efficiently through the markets.

Additional Personnel and Barricades for Enforcement

Ensuring that these new measures are followed requires careful planning and manpower. The Cotton Market traffic zone will see an increase in personnel, with an additional 15 officers assigned to oversee the implementation of traffic rules. Barricades will be set up at key junctions within the Itwari market, where two officers will be deployed at each location to manage traffic flow and enforce the new restrictions.

Adjustments for Rickshaws and Two-Wheelers

Cycle rickshaws and two-wheelers are a common mode of transport in Nagpur, especially for short trips. The traffic department has made special arrangements for them, adjusting their routes to avoid heavily congested areas. Rickshaws heading to Maskasath Square from Shahid Square will need to follow a specific route via Bharat Mata Chowk or Tanga Stand Chowk. Similarly, two-wheelers traveling from Tinnal Chowk to Shaheed Chowk will be diverted via Bharat Mata Chowk.

Stocking Timelines for Traders

The entry of four-wheelers and transport vehicles has been completely restricted during market hours. To ensure businesses are not disrupted, traders have been advised to stock their shops between 11 PM and 8 AM, when traffic is at its lowest. This adjustment is designed to prevent delivery trucks from adding to the already congested roads during peak shopping hours.

Parking Regulations

Parking in Nagpur’s markets can often be a chaotic affair. To alleviate this, one-side parking will now be allowed from Central Avenue to Gandhibagh Garden. Shopkeepers have been urged to use two-wheelers instead of cars when traveling to and from their shops. Additionally, citizens are encouraged to use public transport to reduce the overall number of vehicles in the area.

Upcoming Measures for Sitabuldi Market

While the current focus is on the Itwari Market, the traffic police have indicated that similar measures will soon be applied to the Sitabuldi market. Another notification is expected to be issued shortly, targeting congestion in this busy shopping district.

Encouraging Public Transport and Responsible Parking

In an effort to further reduce congestion, the traffic department is encouraging citizens to opt for public transport or two-wheelers when visiting the markets. DCP Chandak has also emphasized the importance of responsible parking. He urged motorists to avoid parking their vehicles haphazardly, as this only worsens the situation for everyone.

The Importance of Implementing These Measures

Managing traffic in crowded marketplaces is no small feat, especially during a major festival like Diwali. These efforts by the traffic police are critical for ensuring that both shoppers and vendors can navigate the area safely and efficiently. By making strategic adjustments to traffic routes and limiting vehicle access, Nagpur’s markets can continue to thrive without succumbing to gridlock.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Traffic Management During Festivals

As Nagpur continues to grow and attract more visitors, managing traffic during festive seasons will become even more important. While the measures implemented this year are temporary, they offer valuable insights into how the city can improve its infrastructure and traffic management in the long term. By investing in better public transport, encouraging non-motorized transport, and promoting responsible driving habits, Nagpur can create a more sustainable and accessible environment for everyone.

With Diwali just a few days away, Nagpur’s markets are bustling with energy. However, this influx of shoppers also brings significant traffic challenges. Thanks to the swift action taken by the traffic police, measures are being put in place to decongest roads, ensure smoother traffic flow, and make the shopping experience more pleasant for everyone. As we look ahead to the future, it’s clear that strategic traffic management will play an increasingly vital role in maintaining the city’s vibrancy during festive seasons.