Prayagraj Administration Intensifies Traffic and Safety Initiatives
The district administration in Prayagraj is implementing comprehensive measures to enhance traffic management and road safety throughout the city. District Magistrate Manish Verma has issued directives for stringent actions to address key issues, aiming to reduce congestion and improve public safety.
Strict Enforcement Against Illegal Parking
In a move to curb traffic disruptions, the administration will take strict action against vehicles parked illegally outside schools, hospitals, and marriage halls. Additionally, the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA) has been instructed to withhold approval for building plans that do not include designated parking areas, ensuring future developments contribute to better traffic flow.
Development of Permanent Holding Areas
To alleviate congestion from incoming traffic, permanent holding areas will be established at major city entry points along routes from Lucknow, Pratapgarh, Varanasi, Mirzapur, and Rewa. A joint team, led by the ADM City, has been formed to demarcate land for parking and traffic management at key entry points such as Phaphamau, Jhunsi, and Naini. This team is expected to present a detailed plan at the next administrative meeting.
Decongestion and E-Rickshaw Regulations
In an effort to decongest Civil Lines, the area is being prepared for declaration as a "No E-Rickshaw Zone". Policies for e-rickshaw operations will now involve consultation with Tempo-Taxi Union officials to ensure effective on-ground implementation and compliance.
Zero-Fatality Target and Emergency Preparedness
District Magistrate Verma emphasized achieving a zero-fatality target by directing the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to ensure adequate availability of 108 ambulances. Cranes, cutters, and recovery vehicles will be stationed at all entry points, and both private and government hospitals along national highways will remain on high alert to provide immediate treatment to accident victims.
Infrastructure Improvements and Surveys
The Public Works Department (PWD) has been tasked with establishing clearly marked "end-to-end" zebra crossings at intersections, where street vendors, carts, and parking will be strictly prohibited. These areas will be painted for enhanced visibility. A joint survey by the police, transport department, and PWD is scheduled for February 17 to address the closure of the Allopibag flyover cut.
Relocation and Road Safety Plans
To facilitate fitness testing of school vehicles, the city is initiating the relocation of a service station from Mirzapur to Prayagraj. Under the Save Life Foundation's Road Safety Plan, critical corridors have been identified for targeted improvements, focusing on high-risk areas to enhance overall safety.
These initiatives reflect a holistic approach by the Prayagraj administration to tackle traffic and safety challenges, with a strong emphasis on enforcement, infrastructure, and emergency response to protect residents and visitors alike.