Traffic Congestion Returns to Chandigarh's Sector 53-54 Road Despite Market Demolition
Nearly nine months after the demolition of the old furniture market, traffic congestion has resurfaced on the Sector 53-54 dividing road in Chandigarh. Commuters report that barricading near the junction and prolonged signal cycles are now causing significant slowdowns on this key entry point into the city.
From Market Encroachments to Regulatory Bottlenecks
The stretch, previously known as the Furniture Market road, had remained congested for years due to encroachments and roadside parking. Its clearance in July last year had raised expectations of smoother vehicular movement. However, current regulation measures at the main crossing are ironically slowing traffic instead of improving it.
Commuters highlight two primary issues:
- Barricades placed close to the junction have reduced the usable carriage width, funnelling vehicles into fewer lanes
- Signal timing problems with red phases lasting over two minutes while green windows remain only 20-25 seconds
"The market is gone and the road is wider, but traffic is slower than before," said Hitesh, a resident of Phase 2. "At times, you wait through three or four signal cycles to cross."
Additional Factors Exacerbating the Problem
Traffic flow is further affected by private transport offices located ahead of the junction. Buses merging into the main road from these offices take longer to clear the barricaded stretch, adding to the congestion.
Jivtesh, a daily commuter from Mohali, emphasized that the issue is no longer about road width but about traffic management. "There is enough space, but barricading and signal timing need urgent review," he stated.
Broader Pattern Across Chandigarh Entry Points
Similar concerns have been flagged at other entry points into the city. Commuters from Panchkula's Sector 17 side reported naka points near the Mauli Jagran roundabout, where barricades and vehicle checks at the rotary frequently lead to slowdowns.
This increased barricading across Chandigarh comes in the wake of some recent incidents of crime, creating a challenging balance between security measures and traffic efficiency.
The situation highlights how well-intentioned traffic regulation measures can sometimes create unintended consequences, particularly when implemented without comprehensive consideration of traffic flow dynamics. Commuters now await solutions that address both security concerns and the practical realities of daily transportation needs.
