Amritsar's mayor conducted a thorough review of the traffic situation around the historic Gurdwara Shaheedan Sahib on Tuesday. The inspection aimed to address growing concerns over congestion and safety for the thousands of devotees who visit the shrine daily.
Mayor's Inspection
Mayor Karamjit Singh Rintu, accompanied by senior municipal corporation officials and traffic police personnel, visited the gurdwara premises and its surrounding roads. He assessed the current traffic flow, parking arrangements, and pedestrian movement near the shrine. The mayor noted that the area experiences heavy vehicular traffic, especially during peak hours and religious events, leading to long delays and inconvenience for visitors.
Key Observations
During the inspection, the mayor identified several bottlenecks, including narrow roads, unauthorized parking, and inadequate signage. He emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures to streamline traffic and ensure the safety of pedestrians, particularly elderly devotees and children. The mayor also interacted with local shopkeepers and residents to gather their suggestions for improving the situation.
Proposed Measures
Following the review, the mayor announced a series of short-term and long-term measures to alleviate traffic congestion. Short-term actions include deploying additional traffic personnel during peak hours, clearing encroachments, and installing temporary signage. Long-term plans involve widening key roads, constructing a multi-level parking facility, and implementing a one-way traffic system in the vicinity. The municipal corporation will also coordinate with the Punjab Police and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) to ensure smooth implementation.
Community Response
Local residents and devotees welcomed the mayor's proactive approach. Many expressed hope that the proposed measures would significantly reduce traffic woes and enhance the overall experience of visiting the historic gurdwara. The mayor assured the public that the administration is committed to resolving the issue and will regularly monitor progress.
The inspection underscores the civic body's focus on improving urban infrastructure and public amenities in Amritsar, which attracts millions of tourists and pilgrims annually.
