The Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority has cancelled leave for officials and staff responsible for road safety and traffic management as vehicle movement is expected to rise during Diwali and Chhath Puja, according to a government statement reported by The Times of India.
The authority said personnel involved in managing traffic on state expressways would remain on duty round the clock. Additional resources are being deployed to support traffic flow, respond to road-related issues and assist commuters during the festive period.
The arrangements follow directions from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the report said. UPEIDA has increased preparedness across the expressway network in anticipation of heavier movement, although the statement cited in the report did not specify the number of personnel being deployed or identify individual expressway stretches where additional teams would be stationed.
The authority has asked motorists to avoid unnecessary haste and remain patient, warning that increased traffic could result in longer waiting times at some locations. Commuters have also been urged to follow traffic rules and cooperate with personnel deployed for traffic management and road safety.
The measures place the focus on managing the operational pressures that accompany festival travel on high-speed road corridors. Unlike routine traffic conditions, festive-period movement can involve a sharp rise in inter-city journeys, with more vehicles using expressways at the same time. UPEIDA’s stated response is to keep responsible staff available continuously and provide assistance when traffic-related problems occur.
The authority’s appeal to motorists also indicates that smoother movement will depend on road-user behaviour alongside the deployment of officials. Adherence to traffic rules, patience at congested stretches and cooperation with on-ground personnel are part of the safety measures outlined for travellers.
The government statement did not provide a forecast for traffic volumes, details of planned diversions or a list of emergency facilities available along the expressways. It said the arrangements were intended to ensure safer and smoother travel during Diwali and Chhath Puja, when expressways are expected to experience increased traffic.
