Kolkata: In response to a stern directive from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Kolkata Police and Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) are set to initiate a concerted effort against illegal parking and road chaos. The move comes after the CM’s critical remarks on the issue, highlighting the need for sustained action beyond periodic campaigns.
“Illegal parking, blocking roads with autos and totos — the cops see it all but turn a blind eye. When I mention it, they do a ‘Safe Drive Save Life’ campaign for a few days. The rest of the year, they just sleep away,” CM Banerjee remarked. Parking remains a significant challenge in both Kolkata and Howrah. Despite designated parking sites, illegal parking is rampant, particularly in central Kolkata, where double and even triple-lane parking is common. The CM pointed to “wilful oversight” of such practices, suggesting a connection to illicit gains.
The encroachment of pavements by hawkers further exacerbates the problem, forcing pedestrians onto the roads and increasing the risk of accidents while slowing down traffic. “The CM was spot on in her observation about what ails traffic in cities like Kolkata. The cops need to pull up their socks to find a remedy. Parking is common on roads where it is strictly prohibited, perpetuating snarls, slowing down traffic, and causing gridlocks due to lack of road space,” commented a former traffic officer.
In particular, CM Banerjee highlighted Howrah’s Ward 39, where trucks are often parked on narrow roads, creating significant obstructions. Similar issues are prevalent in the southern and eastern parts of the city, including Behala, Jadavpur, East Jadavpur, and Patuli. “Even informing cops doesn’t solve the problem,” lamented Tapan Debnath, a doctor who frequently travels through these areas for work.
Another pressing issue is the uncontrolled blocking of roads by autos. “Across the city, there is hardly any control over autos. They block roads as they wish to pick up passengers, violate rules, and fleece passengers during peak hours,” observed a concerned citizen.
The upcoming joint inspection by the Kolkata Police and KMC aims to address these long-standing issues comprehensively. By enforcing stricter regulations and ensuring sustained monitoring, the authorities hope to alleviate traffic congestion and improve overall road safety in Kolkata. The success of this initiative will hinge on the commitment of law enforcement and municipal bodies to maintain consistent and effective action against illegal parking and road blockages.
As Kolkata braces for this intensified drive, residents and commuters remain hopeful that these measures will lead to tangible improvements in the city’s traffic management and road safety.
