Jaipur: In a proactive move to alleviate traffic congestion and manage road safety more effectively, the Jaipur Police is gearing up to appoint 600 traffic marshals across the city. These marshals, though lacking enforcement powers, will play a crucial role in assisting traffic police to ensure smooth vehicular movement during peak hours and beyond.
Addressing the chronic shortage of manpower in the traffic department, currently standing at only 1,100 personnel including volunteers, officials highlighted the urgency of augmenting support to meet operational demands. “The Bureau of Police Research and Development has recommended a workforce of approximately 4,700 for our traffic department. With recruitments underway, the addition of traffic marshals will significantly bolster our efforts,” stated an official from the Jaipur Police. The traffic marshals will operate in shifts, covering peak traffic periods from 9am to 12pm and 5pm to 8pm, with an additional shift extended until 11pm in selected areas where traffic signals have been adjusted accordingly. This strategic deployment aims to extend operational coverage despite manpower constraints.
“We have outlined a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the appointment of traffic marshals, targeting applicants aged between 21 and 60 years. While initially requiring a minimum educational qualification of 10th grade, we are considering reducing this to 8th grade to widen the applicant pool,” explained the official. The initiative, set to be implemented in collaboration with volunteers and civic engagement, underscores Jaipur’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility and safety through innovative workforce augmentation. By harnessing community participation, the traffic department aims to optimize existing resources while addressing critical infrastructure challenges. Experts have welcomed the move as a practical solution to immediate traffic management needs, emphasizing the role of marshals in complementing enforcement efforts without direct authority. This community-oriented approach not only supports operational efficiency but also fosters a sense of civic responsibility among residents. As the recruitment process progresses, Jaipur anticipates a smoother traffic flow and improved road safety outcomes, setting a precedent for urban governance strategies in Indian cities grappling with similar challenges
