Patna Gets Tough on Traffic Violations and Encroachments
In a major move to decongest Patna's roads, the city traffic police will launch a comprehensive crackdown on unattended and illegally parked vehicles starting Sunday midnight. The initiative comes as part of a broader effort to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety across the city.
Strict Action Against Parking Violations
Acting on directives from Traffic Superintendent of Police Vaibhav Sharma, the drive will initially focus on Nehru Path before expanding to other key areas including Boring Road, New Patliputra Colony, and Exhibition Road. According to the new guidelines, vehicles left on public roads for more than 10 hours or overnight will be classified as traffic hazards under Section 127 of the Motor Vehicles Act.
"Owners have until November 30 to remove damaged or junk vehicles from public spaces," Sharma stated. "Failure to comply will result in towing and legal proceedings against the vehicle owners."
The police have been instructed to prepare a detailed list of vehicles parked in front of showrooms or garages, which will be shared with the Patna Municipal Corporation for appropriate action.
Penalty Structure and Enforcement Measures
The penalty system for violations has been clearly defined by authorities. First-time offenders will face a fine of ₹500, while repeat violators will be charged ₹1,000. Additionally, vehicle owners will be responsible for covering crane charges if their vehicles need to be towed.
"If anyone is found violating the rule, the vehicle will be seized using a crane, and the owner will bear all associated costs along with the prescribed fines," Sharma emphasized during the announcement.
The decision follows a high-level meeting where traffic congestion and illegal parking were identified as major concerns affecting the city's mobility and safety.
Simultaneous Anti-Encroachment Drive
Meanwhile, a multi-agency team comprising officials from the administration, Patna Municipal Corporation, traffic police, and other departments has been conducting an extensive anti-encroachment drive across the city. The operation covered multiple zones including Nutan Rajdhani Circle, Patliputra Circle, Bankipur Circle, and Patna City.
During the drive, the team removed numerous temporary encroachments from public spaces including roads, footpaths, and market areas. Confiscated items included open almirahs, chairs, and wooden carts that were obstructing public movement.
The enforcement action resulted in total penalties amounting to ₹66,900 collected from various circles across the city.
District Magistrate Thiyagrajan SM has directed officials to ensure that encroachments do not reappear in cleared areas. A dedicated follow-up team has been constituted to monitor the situation and take immediate action against repeat offenders.
In a stern warning, the DM has also instructed police to register FIRs against anyone who obstructs the anti-encroachment drive. A five-member monitoring cell has been established to oversee the effectiveness of these initiatives and ensure sustained improvement in urban management.
