Kolkata Police Implements Strict Auto Parking Regulations at Ultadanga Crossing
In a significant move to address chronic traffic congestion, the Kolkata Police top brass has rolled out new parking rules for auto-rickshaws at the busy Ultadanga crossing. This initiative follows extensive inspections and discussions led by senior officers, aiming to streamline vehicle movement in this critical area of the city.
High-Level Police Inspections Pave the Way for Change
The enforcement drive gained momentum after Commissioner of Police Supratim Sarkar took to the streets on Monday night, followed by Additional CP Santosh Pandey conducting a thorough inspection on Tuesday morning. These efforts culminated in a consensus on how autos should be parked to prevent obstruction of traffic flow. Senior officers at Lalbazar have directed their teams to adopt a tough stance, ensuring strict adherence to traffic rules by auto operators, who serve as a vital transport link to Salt Lake and Lake Town.
New Parking Guidelines to Ease Congestion
Under the newly agreed-upon plans, auto-rickshaws parking near the narrower Bidhannagar station area must now align in a single line parallel to the kerb, with perpendicular parking strictly prohibited. However, a short stretch near the Hudco crossing will permit double-lane parking. An officer emphasized that such regulatory drives will become more frequent in the near future to maintain order.
Additionally, autos found picking up passengers too close to the crossing will face fines. On Tuesday alone, around nine autos were penalized within just one hour, as reported by an officer from the Ultadanga Traffic Guard. This strict enforcement is part of a broader strategy to decongest the crossing and improve overall traffic management.
Coordinated Efforts with Auto Unions
The auto unions had initially resisted changes, voicing concerns over parking restrictions near the railway station. However, after the implementation, operators like Jayanta Das noted that traffic circulation has been smoother so far. While some resentment persists, Das acknowledged that senior policemen have appreciated their points, fostering a collaborative approach to solving the issue.
To further facilitate movement, autos from Baguiati, the airport, and Lake Town will now move parallel to the existing NBSTC Depot before entering it—a plan that had existed but was often violated. Police have also installed guardrails inside the depot to enable autos to make a U-turn and return to the main gate, where a signal controls entry and exit for buses, allowing them to turn right towards Ultadanga when the signal turns green.
Broader Traffic Management Initiatives
Additional CP Pandey's visit to Ultadanga crossing was part of a larger effort to assess key crossings in Kolkata. The police top brass has instructed all traffic guards, including Ultadanga, to ensure maximum cop presence during office hours to enforce these rules effectively. Moreover, proposals are being considered to smoothen traffic flow from Park Circus to Ultadanga, indicating a comprehensive approach to tackling the city's traffic woes.
This proactive measure by the Kolkata Police highlights their commitment to improving urban mobility and reducing congestion, with ongoing monitoring and adjustments expected to enhance commuter experience in the bustling city.
