With Christmas and New Year celebrations kicking off, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police (GCTP) has launched a major crackdown on traffic violations, specifically targeting dangerous bike racing, speeding, and drunk driving. Authorities have warned that strict enforcement measures are now in place across the city to ensure public safety during the festive period.
Intensive Checks and Advanced Surveillance
Traffic officials have received clear instructions to barricade key junctions and conduct rigorous vehicle checks throughout the day. The police are leveraging technology to monitor violations, using automated number plate recognition (ANPR) systems and CCTV cameras installed at major intersections. Fines are being issued directly based on the recorded evidence from these systems, leaving little room for offenders to dispute the charges.
Special Teams and Strict Penalties for Violators
To specifically curb the menace of illegal bike racing, special police teams have been deployed on identified stretches. The police have stated that vehicles involved in racing or other serious offences will be seized immediately. They will be released only after thorough document verification and the filing of appropriate legal cases against the riders.
In a strategic move, combined decoy teams featuring police personnel in plain clothes have also been stationed to detect violations that might escape uniformed officers. For cases involving college students, the police have adopted a dual approach: parents will be summoned to the police station for counselling, and written undertakings will be obtained to ensure the offence is not repeated.
Elaborate Security for Christmas Celebrations
Beyond traffic management, elaborate security arrangements have been made for Christmas festivities. Approximately 8,000 police personnel have been deployed to ensure peaceful celebrations at nearly 350 churches in the city. Police teams are stationed at churches to maintain law and order, regulate crowds, and manage traffic in key areas including Santhome, Besant Nagar, Parrys Corner, Anna Salai, and Saidapet.
Additionally, as a safety precaution, entry into the sea at major beaches has been restricted. The police have deployed all-terrain vehicles for continuous monitoring and to ensure the safety of citizens visiting the coastline during the holidays.
