The national capital, Delhi, experienced significant traffic congestion on Friday, particularly along Teen Murti Marg, as citizens navigated the intensified Diwali travel and shopping rush. This surge in vehicular movement follows similar traffic disruptions reported just a day prior in other key areas, including Tolstoy Road and the Greater Noida Authority roundabout.
Diwali, a major Indian festival, invariably leads to heightened traffic in urban centers. With numerous individuals traveling to meet family, engage in festive shopping, and attend celebrations, the roads become exceptionally crowded, resulting in considerably slower commutes and extended travel durations.
Authorities are implementing robust traffic management strategies to mitigate the chaos. Additional personnel have been deployed, and special traffic regulations are in effect. According to senior police officials, maximum staff deployment is a priority, with on-the-spot fines being issued for traffic violations. Patrols are active, and efforts are underway to clear illegally parked vehicles to improve flow. Dedicated traffic plans have been devised for popular shopping districts like Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, and Connaught Place, ensuring smoother movement within these busy zones.
Furthermore, enhanced parking facilities have been established. Recognizing the increased risks during the festive season, special drives are being conducted to combat drunk driving. Teams equipped with alcohol meters are actively monitoring roads and setting up checkpoints in coordination with local police to prosecute offenders.
Online users shared their experiences, with many highlighting the severity of the jams. Some opted for public transport like the metro to bypass the gridlock, while others expressed frustration over the extended delays and the impact on daily commutes. Concerns were also raised about traffic being stalled at entry points due to toll collection, contributing to immense waste of time and fuel.