Onam rush: Action plan ready for stringent traffic enforcement from August 20 in Kozhikode city

The City police have decided to introduce stringent traffic regulations and a parking ban on major roads and junctions in the city in view of the expected rush during the Onam season. As per the latest action plan, special squads will be deployed for implementing the new regulations, which will be in force from August 20 to 31. 

Wayside parking will not be permitted except for emergency vehicles, and vehicles violating the restrictions will be instantly locked or removed using cranes, with the owners liable to pay the removal charges and fines. 

According to senior police officers entrusted with the enforcement actions, parking will be completely prohibited near bus stops, junctions and footpaths. Traders have been asked to ensure that vehicles parked in front of their establishments do not obstruct traffic. Vehicles found being driven on footpaths will be impounded on the spot.

Heavy vehicles will not be permitted to enter the city between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m during the period of restrictions. Inter-State buses operating night services will be allowed to use only the designated parking spots. 

Bus operators will have to pick up and drop passengers only at the designated stops. Auto-rickshaws will not be permitted in front of the Mofussil bus stand or opposite side of the KSRTC stand. Licensed street vendors and push cart traders will be allowed only at designated locations by the local administrators. A separate squad will be deployed to initiate action against the unauthorised vendors.

The police have also called upon pedestrians to make use of zebra crossings and avoid reckless road crossings when vehicles are moving continuously at traffic signals and other points. Arrangements are in place to track violations using digital cameras and drones. Public announcements will also be made through loudspeakers at major junctions.

“There are also plans to discourage the entry of solo travellers in private vehicles to the city limit. We expect voluntary cooperation on the part of motorists to make it a success,” said a Sub Inspector with the Traffic Enforcement unit in Kozhikode city. He also said lane traffic violations and road race would be taken up seriously as part of the measures in place to mitigate road accidents during the festival season.