Kolkata witnessed an unprecedented security and traffic management operation on Sunday as the city braced for a confluence of major events alongside the burgeoning pre-Christmas crowds. The Kolkata Police implemented a massive, meticulously planned duty roster stretching from early morning until late evening to ensure smooth passage.
A Sunday Packed with Major Gatherings
The day presented a unique challenge with three significant events scheduled across the city. The highlight was a large-scale Gita recitation programme at the Brigade Parade Ground, which was expected to draw a massive gathering, including political figures from opposition camps. Simultaneously, an Army-organized bike rally and a marathon in central Kolkata added to the logistical complexity, testing the city's traffic management systems.
In response, the police headquarters at Lalbazar decided to deploy its biggest contingent in the Park Street-Maidan area over the past five years. This strategic move aimed to manage the expected influx of over 50,000 participants at the Brigade grounds and the subsequent parking demand for more than 1,000 vehicles around the Maidan.
Strategic Traffic Plans and Parking Crackdown
Contrary to some expectations, authorities decided not to shut down crucial arteries like Queensway or the Vidyasagar Setu, keeping Sunday's multiple challenges in mind. Instead, they relied on a coordinated strategy involving timely diversions and a peak-hour vehicular circulation plan around key zones from Alipore Zoo to Park Street and Esplanade.
The deployment commenced as early as 7 am near the Brigade Grounds for the Gita recital. A senior officer revealed that extra personnel were requisitioned from other guards to manage the situation. The focus remained sharp on illegal parking, with the police noting over 47,000 prosecutions in the first three weeks of the ongoing drive. "We will park all vehicles coming to Park Street only at designated spots. Those coming to the Gita reading programme will have to park at the Gangasagar grounds," stated an officer.
A Dry Run for the Festive Season Ahead
Saturday saw the police implementing a detailed circulation strategy, which many viewed as a mock run for the upcoming Christmas weeks. Cops were stationed at every crossing, even between Ekbalpore and the Maidan-Park Street stretch, to ensure seamless flow.
The Sunday deployment was expected to remain in force until at least 4 pm near the Brigade grounds. After this, a section of the police force was to be diverted to manage crowds at Alipore Zoo and the increasingly busy Park Street area, a traditional Christmas hotspot. This comprehensive plan underscores the police's proactive approach to handling the city's vibrant yet demanding festive calendar.
