Kolkata is experiencing an unusual surge in weekend picnics and family outings, thanks to a prolonged winter season. This pleasant weather has turned popular spots like the vast Maidan grounds and the Alipore Zoological Gardens into major crowd-pullers, creating significant challenges for the city's police and traffic management authorities.
Traffic Gridlock and 400 Challans Issued
The unexpected and consistent influx of visitors has led to severe issues with illegal parking around these winter hotspots. In response, the traffic police have issued a staggering 400 challans to vehicles found parked in no-parking zones near the zoo, the Maidan, and the Victoria Memorial area. The situation becomes particularly critical on weekends when the pedestrian flow multiplies.
"We are well into the new year but people continue to plan outings every weekend, given the pleasant weather," stated a police officer, highlighting the ongoing nature of the challenge.
Police Ramp Up Measures for Crowd Control
Authorities are now implementing a multi-pronged strategy to manage the crowds and ensure safety. While more signboards are being installed to deter illegal parking, a detailed traffic and security arrangement is being finalized for the period of January 24 to 26, when an even larger turnout is anticipated.
The Alipore Zoo is presenting the toughest logistical challenge, especially at the PTS crossing. "The zoo is throwing up the toughest challenge, given the pressure at the PTS crossing," an officer confirmed. Although the zoo has opened extra gates, police are pushing for increased online ticketing and the removal of vendors from the main gate to ease congestion.
Specific Actions Around Key Locations
To prevent chaos, police have devised specific plans for different locations:
- At Alipore Zoo: Plans are in place to restrict the number of buses originating from the area to prevent visitors from spilling onto the roads. Police personnel are also deployed at both ends of the Foot Over Bridge (FOB) to avoid any stampede-like situations.
- Across the Maidan: Various traffic guards have been instructed to increase their presence on JL Nehru Road and around the Maidan. Cops will be deployed at 15-20 strategic spots during weekend afternoons and evenings specifically to stop illegal parking and jaywalking. Drop gates may also be set up if necessary.
- At Science City: Additional barricading will be installed at entry points to streamline the movement of pedestrians.
An assistant commissioner of police urged public cooperation, saying, "We also urge visitors not to cross the road from anywhere other than on zebra crossings or at drop gates. Action is being taken for illegal parking around Maidan."
Broader Transport Adjustments
The impact of the seasonal crowds extends to public transport as well. The West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) has announced it will rejig bus routes to cover the Kolkata International Book Fair once buses return from the ongoing Gangasagar Mela. This indicates a city-wide logistical adjustment to cater to the high demand for transport to recreational sites.
As Kolkata enjoys its extended winter, the police remain on high alert, balancing the public's desire for outdoor enjoyment with the imperative of maintaining order and safety on the city's streets.
