Delhi experienced a severe traffic snarl on Friday, with Teen Murti Marg becoming a focal point of congestion as the city grappled with the Diwali rush. This heavy traffic followed similar congestion reported earlier in the week near Tolstoy Road and in Greater Noida.
During the Diwali festival, it’s common for major Indian cities like Delhi to witness a dramatic increase in traffic. The heightened activity, including people traveling to visit family and shop for gifts and essentials, overwhelms the road network, leading to significant delays and arduous journeys for many.
Traffic management agencies have mobilized extensively to address the Diwali-induced gridlock. An increased number of traffic personnel are on duty, alongside specific regulations designed to improve traffic flow. Officials have highlighted the deployment of their full contingent and the consistent issuance of fines for traffic rule violations. Efforts are focused on clearing parked vehicles from roadways to enhance mobility. Tailored traffic management strategies are being implemented for popular shopping destinations like Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini Nagar, and Connaught Place.
In addition to traffic control, the city has expanded available parking options to better accommodate the influx of vehicles. Safety measures are also a priority, with a strong emphasis on preventing drunk driving. Police are conducting special operations, using alcohol meters to identify and apprehend drivers who pose a risk due to intoxication, especially during evening hours.
Online communities have been abuzz with shared experiences of the traffic jams. Many individuals expressed their difficulties, with some opting for public transport to circumvent the extensive queues. Frustration over wasted commute time and fuel was a recurring theme, with some users attributing bottlenecks to factors like toll plazas at entry points.