With Christmas festivities expected to draw massive crowds to popular shopping hubs, the Noida Traffic Police have issued a crucial advisory for commuters. Authorities are strongly urging people to opt for the metro and other public transport facilities to navigate the anticipated congestion around Sector 18, Atta Market, and major malls on December 25th.
Festive Hotspots Brace for Massive Footfall
During the holiday season, Sector 18 and Atta Market transform into major crowd magnets. These twin commercial centers are famous for their lively ambiance and a vast array of affordable products, drawing in families, young shoppers, and those making last-minute purchases. The deputy commissioner of police (traffic), Pravin Ranjan Singh, confirmed that a significant surge in visitors is expected at these locations, as well as at GIP Mall, DLF Mall, and other key shopping destinations across Noida and Greater Noida.
"This is likely to affect traffic movement," Singh stated. He emphasized the official recommendation: "We urge people to use the metro and other public transport facilities." To manage the situation, traffic police teams will be strategically deployed at critical points. The police have also issued a strict warning that vehicles parked in unauthorized spots will be towed away.
Pollution Checks and Alternative Routes Advised
The traffic police have also connected the festive advisory to ongoing efforts to combat air pollution. Officers have been issuing fines to BS III and BS IV vehicles as part of these measures. "Challans are being issued for PUC violations and violations of GRAP norms," Singh added. He advised all visitors to ensure their vehicles comply with the current GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan) and CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management) orders to avoid penalties.
For those who must use private vehicles, the police have suggested taking alternative routes to bypass the most congested areas on Thursday. The authorities have also provided a helpline number—9971009001—for the public to seek assistance or information related to traffic management during the festive period.
Proactive Measures for Smooth Celebrations
The combined advisory highlights a proactive approach by Noida police to ensure that Christmas celebrations are not marred by gridlocked traffic and pollution woes. By encouraging a shift to public transit, the aim is to decongest the roads around the busiest commercial zones, making the shopping experience safer and more pleasant for everyone. Commuters are advised to plan their travel in advance, considering the metro as the primary mode of transport to reach these festive hotspots efficiently.
