In a decisive move to enhance road safety, the Nashik City Traffic Branch has announced a significant intensification of patrolling on the crucial flyover spanning the Mumbai-Agra highway. The focus is squarely on curbing a range of traffic violations on the 11-kilometre elevated corridor that has become a hotspot for risky driving behaviour.
Targeting Key Violations on the Elevated Stretch
The reinforced police action will address multiple concerns on the approximately 15-kilometre corridor from Pandavleni to Adgaon. Over-speeding remains a primary target, with authorities deploying interceptor vehicles fitted with speed guns for precise monitoring. However, the crackdown extends beyond just speed. ACP (Traffic) Advita Shinde confirmed that special attention will be paid to bikers and auto-rickshaw drivers who illegally ply their vehicles on the flyover, where they are restricted. Furthermore, the dangerous practice of illegal halting on the flyover will face strict penalties.
Public Concern and Accident Risks
The decision follows persistent reports of violations and public complaints about the hazards posed by stopped vehicles on the high-speed corridor. Vijay Mhaske, a local entrepreneur from Nashik Road, highlighted a common peril. He described scenarios where a driver, while overtaking a heavy vehicle on the flyover, is suddenly confronted by a stationary vehicle on the left lane, leading to potentially catastrophic surprises. Police officials acknowledge that such illegal halting continuously poses a severe accident risk on the elevated road, where drivers do not expect obstructions.
A Proactive Stance from Traffic Authorities
ACP Advita Shinde stated that while periodic checks were always part of their routine, the consistent reports of unauthorized two-wheeler and three-wheeler movement on the flyover necessitated a stronger, more focused response. "The traffic police have been keeping a check on traffic violations from time to time," Shinde said. "However, with reports about bikers and auto drivers also using the flyover, it has been decided to intensify the patrolling." The interceptor vehicle will now be a regular feature on the flyover to deter and detect over-speeding and other offences in real-time.
The police have clarified that their main focus will be on taking stringent action against the prohibited two-wheelers and three-wheelers, alongside motorists who halt illegally. This comprehensive drive aims to restore discipline on a vital artery, ensuring the safety of all commuters using the Mumbai-Agra highway flyover in Nashik.
