Allahabad High Court Directs CCTV Installation Around Lucknow Schools for Enhanced Traffic Management
The Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court has issued a significant directive to government authorities, instructing them to actively consider the installation of CCTV cameras around prominent schools across the city. This measure aims to substantially improve traffic management during the critical periods when schools open and close each day.
Court Order on Public Interest Litigation
The order was formally passed by a bench comprising Justice Alok Mathur and Justice Brijraj Singh. This judicial action was taken in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) that was originally filed by residents of the Gomti River Bank area, who have been persistently affected by severe traffic congestion.
During the course of the hearing, the court had previously issued several important directions regarding the urgent need for relief from the traffic jams consistently caused by schools during their opening and closing hours. These jams have long been a source of frustration for commuters and residents alike.
Compliance Report on Traffic Marshals
In compliance with the court's earlier directives, the state government presented a detailed compliance report concerning the performance of traffic marshals who have been deployed at 18 different schools throughout Lucknow. The report revealed a mixed picture of effectiveness.
It was shared that while marshals at some schools have been notably effective in controlling and managing traffic flow, the performance of marshals at many other schools has unfortunately not been satisfactory. This inconsistency highlights the need for more reliable and technological solutions.
Smart City Monitoring and CCTV Proposal
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Raveena Tyagi, who was present during the hearing, informed the court that major intersections and key roads across Lucknow are already being actively monitored through the city's advanced smart city control room. This existing infrastructure provides a solid foundation for expanded surveillance.
DCP Tyagi further suggested that installing CCTV cameras specifically around schools could significantly enhance traffic control measures. The visual monitoring would allow for real-time assessment of traffic conditions, enabling quicker responses to congestion and better enforcement of traffic rules.
Court Directives and Government Actions
The court has directed the Additional Advocate General to discuss this CCTV camera proposal in comprehensive detail with all relevant officials and the concerned school managements. This collaborative approach ensures that practical considerations and logistical challenges are properly addressed before implementation.
During the hearing, it was also revealed that the government has already taken necessary steps to reduce traffic congestion at a prominent girls' school located in the Mall Avenue area. This demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing specific problem spots, though a city-wide solution is still needed.
Next Steps and Future Hearing
The next hearing in this important case has been scheduled for April 28. This will provide an opportunity to review progress on the CCTV camera proposal and assess further measures to alleviate the persistent traffic issues around Lucknow's educational institutions.
The court's directive represents a forward-looking approach to urban traffic management, leveraging technology to create safer and more efficient environments around schools. As Lucknow continues to grow, such measures become increasingly vital for maintaining orderly traffic flow and ensuring the safety of students, parents, and all road users.
