Monday, 31 May, 2010
As Connaught Place gets a makeover before the Commonwealth Games, the tony marketplace in the heart of the city has become a nightmare for shoppers and office-goers.
Several parking lots have been dug up for restoration work or construction of subways due to which cars are parked on the main road. This is slowing down the movement of traffic. The Middle Circle is also out of bounds, forcing all vehicles on to Inner Circle and Outer Circle. ''There is no place to park so I asked my driver to wait on the road while I paid my phone bill'' said Neena Khurana, a Gole Market resident.
New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has taken up two parking lots in Inner Circle for creation of parking bays. After levelling the road, the civic agency plans to create dedicated parking bays with markings for vehicles in each of the lots. The remaining parking lots will also be taken up in a phased manner. Even in Outer Circle where construction and renovation of subways are underway, a portion of the parking lot has been taken over to dump construction material. With subways out of bounds, thousands of pedestrians are having a tough time crossing the main road in Outer Circle.
''We form groups and then stop cars before crossing the road,'' said Ramesh Gupta, who works in CP. To compound matters, several traffic signals are not working. The traffic police said about five signals had been switched off in Outer Circle as the movement of vehicles was faster without them. One traffic signal is not working due to construction work. ''Manual regulation is working out better. Hence, signals have been switched off at some places,'' said a senior official.
The mess is not just limited to dug-up roads. The corridors and bylanes are filled with construction material. ''I tried walking through the corridors from E-block to M-block and had concrete and cement falling on my head. The facades of buildings are being broken and there are no safety nets to prevent injury to people below,'' said Pritam Kaur, a shopper.
The situation is not likely to improve any time soon. ''Work on parking lots and facades in Inner Circle will be completed by June, the ducting in Middle Circle will end by August and Outer Circle will be restored after work on the subways ends in September. We've deployed marshals to minimise inconvenience,'' said Anand Tiwari, NDMC spokesperson.
Meanwhile, Delhiites are resigned to their fate. ''Nothing can be done now. We wonder if the subways will be completed by September,'' said Atul Bhargava, New Delhi Traders Association (NDTA) president.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Delhi/For-CP-makeover-Delhi-pays-the-price/articleshow/5992672.cms
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
New parking plan for buses at night
Friday, May 28, 2010
To ensure that buses are not parked by the roadside at night, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi is planning to allow them to use the civic body's parking lots.
According to the MCD, its parking lots are entirely vacant at night and by allowing buses to be parked there it can also earn revenue. The civic agency is yet to determine the parking amount to be charged. At present, the MCD has about 150 surface parking lots under its jurisdiction.
An MCD official said: "We have received a request from bus associations that they don't have adequate space to park their buses at night and we have asked them to identify all the areas where parking space is needed by them. Thereafter we will make a zone-wise list and provide them space accordingly. The parking lots where buses would be allowed will be equipped with a cleaning station as well."
The civic agency is also planning to use the parking lots for parking the e-rickshaws to be introduced by it soon.
Original Article sourced from http://www.hindu.com/2010/05/28/stories/2010052858110400.htm
Friday, May 28, 2010
Watch your step, it’s a Games mess in Campus
Saturday, 29 May, 2010
Traffic was thrown out of gear in Delhi University's north campus on Friday. With the Gamesrelated construction work on in full swing, students were seen struggling to make their way through broken footpaths in a dust-filled environment.
The worst affected intersections were near the major centers for distribution of admission forms such as the Arts faculty, Kirori Mal College and the Dean Students ' Welfare office — that saw a turnout of over 40,000 as per rough estimates. A protest held by members of National Students' Union of India against displacement of Baba Bhim Rao Ambedkar's statue from the Delhi University Student Union office , which has been demolished for fresh construction, added to the chaos.
"With North Campus full of admission seekers, traffic in the area was affected. Private vehicles had clogged the space even as pedestrians were forced to walk on the roads as footpaths were broken or under renovation ," said Sagarpreet Hooda , DCP (north).
Hooda advised DU aspirants and their parents coming to the campus to buy forms to use public transport . Monica Sharma, a DU aspirant, complained about lack of signages at the work sites. "Near St Stephen's and Arts faculty, footpaths are only partially covered. There are high chances of someone falling into the open drain," she said.
Many admission-seekers from the Northeast states, Jharkhand and Bihar felt the construction and demolition work across the campus could have been better planned to allow smooth flow of traffic in the area.
"I expected the college and the campus to be more beautiful. But all I see here is demolished buildings, dug up roads and dust. Hopefully , the construction work will be over by the time our classes start this session," said Biswapriya Yonjon, a student from Manipur.
About 400 police personnel were deployed in North Campus to maintain law and order. These included women constables and plainclothesmen . Four companies were deployed.
"No untoward incident was reported on the first day of the admission season. Our officers were patrolling all along. I visited the area in the afternoon for inspection ," added Hooda.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Delhi/Watch-your-step-its-a-Games-mess-/articleshow/5987373.cms
Traffic was thrown out of gear in Delhi University's north campus on Friday. With the Gamesrelated construction work on in full swing, students were seen struggling to make their way through broken footpaths in a dust-filled environment.
The worst affected intersections were near the major centers for distribution of admission forms such as the Arts faculty, Kirori Mal College and the Dean Students ' Welfare office — that saw a turnout of over 40,000 as per rough estimates. A protest held by members of National Students' Union of India against displacement of Baba Bhim Rao Ambedkar's statue from the Delhi University Student Union office , which has been demolished for fresh construction, added to the chaos.
"With North Campus full of admission seekers, traffic in the area was affected. Private vehicles had clogged the space even as pedestrians were forced to walk on the roads as footpaths were broken or under renovation ," said Sagarpreet Hooda , DCP (north).
Hooda advised DU aspirants and their parents coming to the campus to buy forms to use public transport . Monica Sharma, a DU aspirant, complained about lack of signages at the work sites. "Near St Stephen's and Arts faculty, footpaths are only partially covered. There are high chances of someone falling into the open drain," she said.
Many admission-seekers from the Northeast states, Jharkhand and Bihar felt the construction and demolition work across the campus could have been better planned to allow smooth flow of traffic in the area.
"I expected the college and the campus to be more beautiful. But all I see here is demolished buildings, dug up roads and dust. Hopefully , the construction work will be over by the time our classes start this session," said Biswapriya Yonjon, a student from Manipur.
About 400 police personnel were deployed in North Campus to maintain law and order. These included women constables and plainclothesmen . Four companies were deployed.
"No untoward incident was reported on the first day of the admission season. Our officers were patrolling all along. I visited the area in the afternoon for inspection ," added Hooda.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Delhi/Watch-your-step-its-a-Games-mess-/articleshow/5987373.cms
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Help us tame rickshaws, cops to Govt
Wednesday, 26 May, 2010
In a bid to ensure smooth traffic movement and bring down street accidents, Delhi traffic police are pressing the government for appropriate legislation to deal with cycle rickshaws, which, according to them, hinder traffic management in the Capital.
After a recent High Court judgment removed the cap imposed by MCD with respect to cycle rickshaws licenses, Delhi Traffic police on May 6 wrote to the state chief secretary and the Lieutenant Governor to translate the proposed 'Rickshaw Policy' into an act and thereby empower police to deal with rickshaws.
Cycle rickshaws were introduced in Delhi in the 1940s and it was expected that these would disappear with the growth of modern, motorised transport. But their numbers have grown phenomenally in the last two decades. Presently, a couple of lakh of rickshaws ply on Delhi roads.
"We have asked for MCD to be empowered to give zone-wise registration to each rickshaw with a restriction to their operating areas," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner (Traffic).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Help-us-tame-rickshaws-cops-to-Govt/Article1-549026.aspx
In a bid to ensure smooth traffic movement and bring down street accidents, Delhi traffic police are pressing the government for appropriate legislation to deal with cycle rickshaws, which, according to them, hinder traffic management in the Capital.
After a recent High Court judgment removed the cap imposed by MCD with respect to cycle rickshaws licenses, Delhi Traffic police on May 6 wrote to the state chief secretary and the Lieutenant Governor to translate the proposed 'Rickshaw Policy' into an act and thereby empower police to deal with rickshaws.
Cycle rickshaws were introduced in Delhi in the 1940s and it was expected that these would disappear with the growth of modern, motorised transport. But their numbers have grown phenomenally in the last two decades. Presently, a couple of lakh of rickshaws ply on Delhi roads.
"We have asked for MCD to be empowered to give zone-wise registration to each rickshaw with a restriction to their operating areas," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner (Traffic).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Help-us-tame-rickshaws-cops-to-Govt/Article1-549026.aspx
Monday, May 24, 2010
Delhi hikes road tax for luxury cars, high-end bikes
Monday, 24 May, 2010
Driving a car, especially a luxury car or a high-end motorcycle, is set to get costlier in the capital. The Delhi cabinet Monday decided to raise the vehicles' road tax rates in a bid to generate additional revenue for the city government.
According to the revised road tax rates the cabinet cleared with Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit in the chair, two-wheelers costing up to Rs.25,000 will be charged the existing two percent, while two-wheelers costing between Rs.25,000 and Rs.40,000 will now attract four percent road tax and those above Rs.40,000 will be charged six percent.
The rate for cars, priced up to Rs.6 lakh, has been doubled to four percent, while it has gone up to seven percent on those costing between Rs.6 lakh and Rs.10 lakh. Those owning motor vehicles costing Rs.10 lakh would have to pay a road tax of 10 percent.
The new rate will come into force after the issue of a notification.
This will go a long way in restricting purchase of luxury cars and discouraging use of private vehicles in the city, Dikshit told reporters after the meeting.
"The rates have been rationalised to also enhance revenue generation," she said, adding rationalisation of road tax was needed to replace the rates existing for decades.
Dikshit noted that the new rates were rationalised in such a way that there will be marginal effect on purchase of two-wheelers and non-luxury cars.
However, the chief minister said the cabinet decided to retain prevalent rates on public utility vehicles such as public goods careers as it would have adverse impact on common man.
A Delhi government official said the rates prevalent in the neighbouring states were also considered before taking a decision.
The official said about 1,000 new vehicles are registered in the city every day and add to the traffic chaos on roads. There are around 6 million vehicles in Delhi, which has an estimated population of 12 million.
The state cabinet recently also approved a proposal to revise registration fee of properties to generate an additional revenue of Rs.100 crore.
Original news source http://blog.taragana.com/business/2010/05/24/delhi-hikes-road-tax-for-luxury-cars-high-end-bikes-64150/
Driving a car, especially a luxury car or a high-end motorcycle, is set to get costlier in the capital. The Delhi cabinet Monday decided to raise the vehicles' road tax rates in a bid to generate additional revenue for the city government.
According to the revised road tax rates the cabinet cleared with Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit in the chair, two-wheelers costing up to Rs.25,000 will be charged the existing two percent, while two-wheelers costing between Rs.25,000 and Rs.40,000 will now attract four percent road tax and those above Rs.40,000 will be charged six percent.
The rate for cars, priced up to Rs.6 lakh, has been doubled to four percent, while it has gone up to seven percent on those costing between Rs.6 lakh and Rs.10 lakh. Those owning motor vehicles costing Rs.10 lakh would have to pay a road tax of 10 percent.
The new rate will come into force after the issue of a notification.
This will go a long way in restricting purchase of luxury cars and discouraging use of private vehicles in the city, Dikshit told reporters after the meeting.
"The rates have been rationalised to also enhance revenue generation," she said, adding rationalisation of road tax was needed to replace the rates existing for decades.
Dikshit noted that the new rates were rationalised in such a way that there will be marginal effect on purchase of two-wheelers and non-luxury cars.
However, the chief minister said the cabinet decided to retain prevalent rates on public utility vehicles such as public goods careers as it would have adverse impact on common man.
A Delhi government official said the rates prevalent in the neighbouring states were also considered before taking a decision.
The official said about 1,000 new vehicles are registered in the city every day and add to the traffic chaos on roads. There are around 6 million vehicles in Delhi, which has an estimated population of 12 million.
The state cabinet recently also approved a proposal to revise registration fee of properties to generate an additional revenue of Rs.100 crore.
Original news source http://blog.taragana.com/business/2010/05/24/delhi-hikes-road-tax-for-luxury-cars-high-end-bikes-64150/
To manage traffic, cops want courts, shops shut
Monday, 24 May, 2010
The Commonwealth Games are likely to affect commercial and legal activities. To ease traffic movement and to manage traffic, Delhi government has ordered all major markets in Delhi to remain shut at least during the games' opening and closing days.
The government also wrote to the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court registrar generals asking them to keep the courts shut during the games. This request was turned down. Now, the Delhi Police wants the lower courts to remain closed for three days from October 11.
"Through the chief secretary, we had appealed to the registrar generals of Supreme Court and High Court to announce Dusshera holidays of courts from October 4 instead of October 9. We wanted the courts to be closed during the games as High Court, Supreme Court and Patiala Court are near the games venue. The plea was turned down. The courts will stay shut from October 9 for Dusshera. Now we are asking the authorities to keep the lower courts shut for three days," said Ajay Chadha, Special Commissioner, Delhi Traffic Police.
Rajeev Khoshma, former president of Delhi Bar Association, said: "They want the lower courts closed only for three days. I think the plea should be granted in national interest."
Business activities, however, will suffer the most with most markets closed on opening and closing days of the games.
Major markets including Chandni Chowk, Dilli Haat, Janak Puri, Karol Bagh, Khan Market and shopping malls will stay shut on first and last day of the games. Praveen Khandelwal, general secretary, Confederation of All India Traders: "We will suffer losses of nearly Rs 500 crore."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/To-manage-traffic-cops-want-courts-shops-shut/Article1-548037.aspx
The Commonwealth Games are likely to affect commercial and legal activities. To ease traffic movement and to manage traffic, Delhi government has ordered all major markets in Delhi to remain shut at least during the games' opening and closing days.
The government also wrote to the Supreme Court and Delhi High Court registrar generals asking them to keep the courts shut during the games. This request was turned down. Now, the Delhi Police wants the lower courts to remain closed for three days from October 11.
"Through the chief secretary, we had appealed to the registrar generals of Supreme Court and High Court to announce Dusshera holidays of courts from October 4 instead of October 9. We wanted the courts to be closed during the games as High Court, Supreme Court and Patiala Court are near the games venue. The plea was turned down. The courts will stay shut from October 9 for Dusshera. Now we are asking the authorities to keep the lower courts shut for three days," said Ajay Chadha, Special Commissioner, Delhi Traffic Police.
Rajeev Khoshma, former president of Delhi Bar Association, said: "They want the lower courts closed only for three days. I think the plea should be granted in national interest."
Business activities, however, will suffer the most with most markets closed on opening and closing days of the games.
Major markets including Chandni Chowk, Dilli Haat, Janak Puri, Karol Bagh, Khan Market and shopping malls will stay shut on first and last day of the games. Praveen Khandelwal, general secretary, Confederation of All India Traders: "We will suffer losses of nearly Rs 500 crore."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/To-manage-traffic-cops-want-courts-shops-shut/Article1-548037.aspx
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Top firms line up for Rs 300-cr intelligent traffic management system in New Delhi
Sunday, 23 May, 2010
Top Indian and multinational technology firms are queuing up for a slice of Delhi Police's ambitious Rs 300-crore project to set up and manage an intelligent traffic management system or ITS in the National Capital.
According to the documents available with Business Line, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro, HCL Infosystems, Mahindra Satyam and Tejas Networks are among the 15 companies that have evinced interest in the much-delayed project.
International players who have purchased the bid document include the likes of Steria, Siemens and Cisco.
ITS map
Under the proposed ITS map, 275 traffic signals in the National Capital region would be covered and the IP-based CCTV cameras installed at every point to monitor traffic movement and also identify traffic violators.
The system will be trained to read vehicles registration numbers of automobiles and also help in communication of important messages to motorists through the mobile and the Internet.
The video receipt from the cameras will then be analysed by software for definite incident detection and help in its management.
"In a project of this magnitude, different technologies such as area traffic control system, traffic monitoring system, traffic signals, variable message signs, speed violation cameras, CCTVs among others will be used.
Integration of different technologies
Software companies will have a major play in integrating these technologies and in making they talk to each other," a top official with one of the tier-I IT companies, bidding for this project, said.
The winning bidder will have to setup the ITS system within 18 months and subsequently maintain it for a period of seven years. Since hardware, software and networking gear makers will have a significant role in this project, the tender allows interested parties to bid as a consortium.
Consortium
However, the total stake of an Indian company in the consortium will have to be at least 51 per cent.
It may be recalled that the ITS system was expected to go live before the Commonwealth Games in October this year.
However, the process of floating the tenders kept getting delayed time and again.
Meanwhile, the scope of the work, in terms of the areas covered, will also get extended. Now the interested parties will have to submit their bids by May 31.
Original news source http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2010/05/24/stories/2010052450450200.htm
Top Indian and multinational technology firms are queuing up for a slice of Delhi Police's ambitious Rs 300-crore project to set up and manage an intelligent traffic management system or ITS in the National Capital.
According to the documents available with Business Line, Tata Consultancy Services, Wipro, HCL Infosystems, Mahindra Satyam and Tejas Networks are among the 15 companies that have evinced interest in the much-delayed project.
International players who have purchased the bid document include the likes of Steria, Siemens and Cisco.
ITS map
Under the proposed ITS map, 275 traffic signals in the National Capital region would be covered and the IP-based CCTV cameras installed at every point to monitor traffic movement and also identify traffic violators.
The system will be trained to read vehicles registration numbers of automobiles and also help in communication of important messages to motorists through the mobile and the Internet.
The video receipt from the cameras will then be analysed by software for definite incident detection and help in its management.
"In a project of this magnitude, different technologies such as area traffic control system, traffic monitoring system, traffic signals, variable message signs, speed violation cameras, CCTVs among others will be used.
Integration of different technologies
Software companies will have a major play in integrating these technologies and in making they talk to each other," a top official with one of the tier-I IT companies, bidding for this project, said.
The winning bidder will have to setup the ITS system within 18 months and subsequently maintain it for a period of seven years. Since hardware, software and networking gear makers will have a significant role in this project, the tender allows interested parties to bid as a consortium.
Consortium
However, the total stake of an Indian company in the consortium will have to be at least 51 per cent.
It may be recalled that the ITS system was expected to go live before the Commonwealth Games in October this year.
However, the process of floating the tenders kept getting delayed time and again.
Meanwhile, the scope of the work, in terms of the areas covered, will also get extended. Now the interested parties will have to submit their bids by May 31.
Original news source http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2010/05/24/stories/2010052450450200.htm
Friday, May 21, 2010
Now, you can drive faster on Delhi roads
Friday, 21 May, 2010
Now, you can travel the entire stretch of Delhi-Gurgaon expressway or DND flyway at 80kmph without having traffic cops flag you down for speeding. In a move that attempts to bring road rules up to speed with ground realities -- and with various infrastructural projects getting completed ahead of Commonwealth Games -- Delhi traffic police has upped speed limits on several arterial roads in the city.
The new limits on most stretches now range between 50 to 80kmph and there are plans for further revision as more roads get cleared out in the near future. The move also puts Delhi in the league of international cities where speed limits are high on expressways and highways for quick vehicular transit and low in residential colonies and markets, where pedestrian movement is heavy.
With the changes, effective from May 20, the speed limits on all expressways is now 80kmph for cars and two wheelers. On most stretches of major roads like Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, it is 60kmph, and in residential areas, 25kmph. For trucks and buses, however, the limit has been fixed at 40kmph on all roads except residential areas where it is just 20kmph.
This is a deviation from the existing speed limits which were low and had been further reduced on several stretches to facilitate construction of flyovers, underpasses, Metro lines etc. With roads fast getting cleared out and restored, the traffic police felt the need to revise the limits.
"The speed limits on several stretches were unrealistic and needed to be increased. On parts of Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, the limits had been reduced wherever construction activity was on. Now that several roads have been restored, the speed limits have been increased," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
The speed limit on Ring Road between Ashram and Azadpur flyover has been increased to 60kmph after the construction of Naraina flyover and road widening work has got completed. The limit has similarly been increased on Outer Ring Road between Modi Mill flyover and Olof Palme Marg as a new flyover has come up at Munirka and the construction of Delhi Metro's Hauz Khas station on the Gurgaon line is complete.
The traffic police plan to revise limits again on more stretches where construction is currently on. "The speed limit on National Highway-1 will be increased to 80kmph after road widening gets completed. The limit on Ring Road near Rajghat and Shanti Van will also be increased after the Salimgarh bypass gets operational," Chadha added. On all roads between Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, and those beyond Outer Ring Road, the limit is 50kmph for cars and two-wheelers.
The cops also felt a need to clear ambiguity about speed limits. Chadha said the police are going to put up speed limit signages to inform people about the limits above which they can be prosecuted for overspeeding.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Now-you-can-drive-faster-on-Delhi-roads/articleshow/5955962.cms
Now, you can travel the entire stretch of Delhi-Gurgaon expressway or DND flyway at 80kmph without having traffic cops flag you down for speeding. In a move that attempts to bring road rules up to speed with ground realities -- and with various infrastructural projects getting completed ahead of Commonwealth Games -- Delhi traffic police has upped speed limits on several arterial roads in the city.
The new limits on most stretches now range between 50 to 80kmph and there are plans for further revision as more roads get cleared out in the near future. The move also puts Delhi in the league of international cities where speed limits are high on expressways and highways for quick vehicular transit and low in residential colonies and markets, where pedestrian movement is heavy.
With the changes, effective from May 20, the speed limits on all expressways is now 80kmph for cars and two wheelers. On most stretches of major roads like Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, it is 60kmph, and in residential areas, 25kmph. For trucks and buses, however, the limit has been fixed at 40kmph on all roads except residential areas where it is just 20kmph.
This is a deviation from the existing speed limits which were low and had been further reduced on several stretches to facilitate construction of flyovers, underpasses, Metro lines etc. With roads fast getting cleared out and restored, the traffic police felt the need to revise the limits.
"The speed limits on several stretches were unrealistic and needed to be increased. On parts of Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, the limits had been reduced wherever construction activity was on. Now that several roads have been restored, the speed limits have been increased," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
The speed limit on Ring Road between Ashram and Azadpur flyover has been increased to 60kmph after the construction of Naraina flyover and road widening work has got completed. The limit has similarly been increased on Outer Ring Road between Modi Mill flyover and Olof Palme Marg as a new flyover has come up at Munirka and the construction of Delhi Metro's Hauz Khas station on the Gurgaon line is complete.
The traffic police plan to revise limits again on more stretches where construction is currently on. "The speed limit on National Highway-1 will be increased to 80kmph after road widening gets completed. The limit on Ring Road near Rajghat and Shanti Van will also be increased after the Salimgarh bypass gets operational," Chadha added. On all roads between Ring Road and Outer Ring Road, and those beyond Outer Ring Road, the limit is 50kmph for cars and two-wheelers.
The cops also felt a need to clear ambiguity about speed limits. Chadha said the police are going to put up speed limit signages to inform people about the limits above which they can be prosecuted for overspeeding.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Now-you-can-drive-faster-on-Delhi-roads/articleshow/5955962.cms
Monday, May 17, 2010
Policing via social networking
Tuesday, 18 May, 2010
The latest updates on Delhi's traffic condition are just a click away now. Delhiites can get in touch with the Delhi Traffic police through popular social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook.
By logging on to Twitter, you can get to know about the condition of Delhi traffic, which roads you should take and which to avoid, to reach your destination.
By logging on to Facebook, you can share your views on the traffic management initiatives.
The rising Internet penetration among Delhiites has prompted Delhi Traffic police to go the social-networking way. And the innovative idea seems to have clicked.
"People have started communicating with the traffic police through Facebook and Twitter in bulk," said a senior traffic police officer.
"Through Facebook, we provide information about new plans, initiatives and challenges, and also make the users aware about the traffic situation in the city. Besides, we seek suggestions, reactions and views from responsible citizens of Delhi," said Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic).
"Through Twitter, we update them about events, processions, rallies, road congestion, accidents etc. The management of traffic in Delhi during the forthcoming Commonwealth Games is a big challenge as well as a great opportunity," he said further.
"We cannot succeed without the active participation and co-operation of all road users in Delhi. We have created these e-platforms in a bid to ensure better traffic management during the Games. However, we will continue the e-service even after the games," Garg added.
In the discussion forum on Facebook, the Delhi Traffic police has displayed four topics including 'Delhi Tourist Police', 'Guidelines for Foreigners Visiting Delhi', 'Traffic Management during Commonwealth Games' and 'Safe Pedestrian Drive by Delhi Traffic Police'.
On May 3, one Mukesh Rathi posted on the discussion board: "People need to contribute by way of abiding by the laws and following the directions issued by the traffic policemen."
Lalit Kumar Sharma had some tips for foreigners visiting India. Some of these include: "Carry credit cards and cash in your pocket. When dining out, keep pocketbooks on your lap not dangling over the back of a chair."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Policing-via-social-networking/Article1-545048.aspx
The latest updates on Delhi's traffic condition are just a click away now. Delhiites can get in touch with the Delhi Traffic police through popular social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook.
By logging on to Twitter, you can get to know about the condition of Delhi traffic, which roads you should take and which to avoid, to reach your destination.
By logging on to Facebook, you can share your views on the traffic management initiatives.
The rising Internet penetration among Delhiites has prompted Delhi Traffic police to go the social-networking way. And the innovative idea seems to have clicked.
"People have started communicating with the traffic police through Facebook and Twitter in bulk," said a senior traffic police officer.
"Through Facebook, we provide information about new plans, initiatives and challenges, and also make the users aware about the traffic situation in the city. Besides, we seek suggestions, reactions and views from responsible citizens of Delhi," said Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic).
"Through Twitter, we update them about events, processions, rallies, road congestion, accidents etc. The management of traffic in Delhi during the forthcoming Commonwealth Games is a big challenge as well as a great opportunity," he said further.
"We cannot succeed without the active participation and co-operation of all road users in Delhi. We have created these e-platforms in a bid to ensure better traffic management during the Games. However, we will continue the e-service even after the games," Garg added.
In the discussion forum on Facebook, the Delhi Traffic police has displayed four topics including 'Delhi Tourist Police', 'Guidelines for Foreigners Visiting Delhi', 'Traffic Management during Commonwealth Games' and 'Safe Pedestrian Drive by Delhi Traffic Police'.
On May 3, one Mukesh Rathi posted on the discussion board: "People need to contribute by way of abiding by the laws and following the directions issued by the traffic policemen."
Lalit Kumar Sharma had some tips for foreigners visiting India. Some of these include: "Carry credit cards and cash in your pocket. When dining out, keep pocketbooks on your lap not dangling over the back of a chair."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Policing-via-social-networking/Article1-545048.aspx
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Roads get a blue coat for Games traffic plan rollout
Friday, 14 May, 2010
Starting next month, the traffic police is planning to start dry runs of the traffic management plan for Commonwealth Games. In phases, one lane of road space on all roads leading to Games venues, Commonwealth Games village, and the airport, will be blocked for normal traffic. The civic agencies have started marking out the lane in blue on several roads, and once the markings are complete, the dry runs will commence.
With the sole solution to Delhi's traffic mess — the Intelligent Traffic Signals (ITS) project — missing the September deadline, the traffic police plans to hold trial runs of the traffic management plan which has been prepared for the Commonwealth Games. During the 12-day period starting October 3, normal traffic will not be allowed to use a pre-marked lane on selected roads. All cars, buses, etc, ferrying athletes, delegates, will use the dedicated lane, being called the Games lane. The traffic police plan to impose a heavy penalty on normal vehicles which trespass into this space.
Senior officials revealed the lanes will not be blocked off round the clock. But a schedule will be prepared and each time there is an event in the vicinity, or on days of the opening and closing ceremonies, the space will be reserved for Games traffic.
In order to sensitize Delhiites about the lane segregation, and also see its impact on movement of traffic in the city, the cops are going to start enforcing segregation of Games lane on select roads starting next month. ''Games lanes on all the roads are not going to be blocked at once. We plan to take up stretches and enforce lane discipline to see how it works and also sensitize drivers. The first dry runs will start in June and several rounds will be carried out in the next few months,'' said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
To start with, the dry runs will be held on Sundays and holidays, when traffic is thin. But later, these will be tried out even on working days to see the impact of flow of traffic, as the volumes are very high on Delhi roads.
The Games lane will be marked using blue paint along with the Commonwealth Games logo on the affected roads. The process of marking has already begun and the cops are reportedly waiting for this process of physical marking to complete to start the trials.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Roads-get-a-blue-coat-for-Games-traffic-plan-rollout/articleshow/5928279.cms
Starting next month, the traffic police is planning to start dry runs of the traffic management plan for Commonwealth Games. In phases, one lane of road space on all roads leading to Games venues, Commonwealth Games village, and the airport, will be blocked for normal traffic. The civic agencies have started marking out the lane in blue on several roads, and once the markings are complete, the dry runs will commence.
With the sole solution to Delhi's traffic mess — the Intelligent Traffic Signals (ITS) project — missing the September deadline, the traffic police plans to hold trial runs of the traffic management plan which has been prepared for the Commonwealth Games. During the 12-day period starting October 3, normal traffic will not be allowed to use a pre-marked lane on selected roads. All cars, buses, etc, ferrying athletes, delegates, will use the dedicated lane, being called the Games lane. The traffic police plan to impose a heavy penalty on normal vehicles which trespass into this space.
Senior officials revealed the lanes will not be blocked off round the clock. But a schedule will be prepared and each time there is an event in the vicinity, or on days of the opening and closing ceremonies, the space will be reserved for Games traffic.
In order to sensitize Delhiites about the lane segregation, and also see its impact on movement of traffic in the city, the cops are going to start enforcing segregation of Games lane on select roads starting next month. ''Games lanes on all the roads are not going to be blocked at once. We plan to take up stretches and enforce lane discipline to see how it works and also sensitize drivers. The first dry runs will start in June and several rounds will be carried out in the next few months,'' said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
To start with, the dry runs will be held on Sundays and holidays, when traffic is thin. But later, these will be tried out even on working days to see the impact of flow of traffic, as the volumes are very high on Delhi roads.
The Games lane will be marked using blue paint along with the Commonwealth Games logo on the affected roads. The process of marking has already begun and the cops are reportedly waiting for this process of physical marking to complete to start the trials.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Roads-get-a-blue-coat-for-Games-traffic-plan-rollout/articleshow/5928279.cms
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
BRT redux? Govt, police fight over new lane
Thursday, 13 May, 2010
The ghost of BRT seems to be revisiting the Capital as heated exchanges are being traded between the Traffic Police and Delhi government over the plan to build a non-motorised vehicle lane along the Bhisham Pitamah Marg leading to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Like the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor, the non-motorised lane (NML), also being pushed by the Transport Committee, will be separated from the rest of the road with a physical barrier—a divider painted in red.
After the Traffic Police stalled the ongoing work, L-G Tejinder Khanna ordered a joint inspection along with Delhi Traffic Police, PWD and other town planners to sort out the issue.
The trouble started when the PWD built the divider to create the lane without consulting the Traffic Police. "We came to know only after construction work started. They did not consult us at the planning stage at all," said a senior Traffic Police officer. The Traffic Police immediately moved to stop the work and informed the L-G, who called a meeting on April 29 and asked the PWD to stop work.
The PWD's plan is to build a 2.6-metre lane along with a footpath. There will be two lanes available for motorised vehicles. "With the footpath and NMV lane there is hardly any space left for the motorised vehicles. This will lead to major traffic chaos and it will be difficult for us to manage it later on," added a senior traffic police officer.
The government, however, is preparing its ground against the Traffic Police. "Already more than one lane of the road is encroached by parked cars. By this plan we are actually sorting out the area in a better manner. The cars will be parked at parking space built on Kushak Nullah. While the existing encroached space will be converted into non-motorised vehicle lane," said Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta. Sources said Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit was also piqued by the Traffic Police stand.
"Studies indicate that two lanes can easily accommodate 3,428 PCUs (passenger car units), while at Bhisham Pitmah Marg it is only 2,400 PCUs at peak hours. So there is no question of chaos. Also, we are maintaining international standards of road width," said Pradeep Sachdeva, who designed the lane as well streetscaping of the road.
In fact, the Traffic Committee, which is working on an action plan for the city, has suggested non-motorise vehicle lanes all over the Capital. The committee has members from all fields and is headed by the Chief Secretary. "The Traffic Police is here to enforce laws, not to make them. How can they stop work on something which is part of the Delhi's masterplan," said committee member Madhu Kishwar.
Original news source http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/brt-redux-govt-police-fight-over-new-lane/618128/
The ghost of BRT seems to be revisiting the Capital as heated exchanges are being traded between the Traffic Police and Delhi government over the plan to build a non-motorised vehicle lane along the Bhisham Pitamah Marg leading to Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Like the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor, the non-motorised lane (NML), also being pushed by the Transport Committee, will be separated from the rest of the road with a physical barrier—a divider painted in red.
After the Traffic Police stalled the ongoing work, L-G Tejinder Khanna ordered a joint inspection along with Delhi Traffic Police, PWD and other town planners to sort out the issue.
The trouble started when the PWD built the divider to create the lane without consulting the Traffic Police. "We came to know only after construction work started. They did not consult us at the planning stage at all," said a senior Traffic Police officer. The Traffic Police immediately moved to stop the work and informed the L-G, who called a meeting on April 29 and asked the PWD to stop work.
The PWD's plan is to build a 2.6-metre lane along with a footpath. There will be two lanes available for motorised vehicles. "With the footpath and NMV lane there is hardly any space left for the motorised vehicles. This will lead to major traffic chaos and it will be difficult for us to manage it later on," added a senior traffic police officer.
The government, however, is preparing its ground against the Traffic Police. "Already more than one lane of the road is encroached by parked cars. By this plan we are actually sorting out the area in a better manner. The cars will be parked at parking space built on Kushak Nullah. While the existing encroached space will be converted into non-motorised vehicle lane," said Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta. Sources said Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit was also piqued by the Traffic Police stand.
"Studies indicate that two lanes can easily accommodate 3,428 PCUs (passenger car units), while at Bhisham Pitmah Marg it is only 2,400 PCUs at peak hours. So there is no question of chaos. Also, we are maintaining international standards of road width," said Pradeep Sachdeva, who designed the lane as well streetscaping of the road.
In fact, the Traffic Committee, which is working on an action plan for the city, has suggested non-motorise vehicle lanes all over the Capital. The committee has members from all fields and is headed by the Chief Secretary. "The Traffic Police is here to enforce laws, not to make them. How can they stop work on something which is part of the Delhi's masterplan," said committee member Madhu Kishwar.
Original news source http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/brt-redux-govt-police-fight-over-new-lane/618128/
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Trimmed plan for August Kranti Marg gets SC nod
Tuesday, 11 May, 2010
Siri fort complex : Project gets green signal after PWD cuts number of trees to be felled from 54 to 15
Thirty-nine trees in South Delhi have been spared the axe after the Public Works Department (PWD) downsized its plans to widen the "arterial" August Kranti Marg for easy approach to the Siri Fort sports complex during the Commonwealth Games this October.
The PWD had initially put in a demand for felling 54 trees to broaden the entire August Kranti Marg stretch. Its plans got the green signal from the Supreme Court on Monday only after it brought the number down to 15.
The PWD stated it was too late in the day to stick to its original expansion plans, and felt that a slip road to the sports complex would be a safer bet. Fifteen trees fall in the way of the slip road. They are located at the August Kranti Marg-Balbir Saxena Marg intersection and the parking area opposite the Siri Fort auditorium.
The PWD had first revealed its change of plans to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) in March this year.
The Green Bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan, on Monday agreed with the CEC's endorsement of the PWD's revised plans. The court, however, added that "wherever technically feasible, transplanting of trees will be done instead of felling".
The PWD, meanwhile, terms the "shortened project" necessary. "It is estimated that even if permission is granted (for the original plan) and work is started now, the same may not be completed before the Games, leading to traffic chaos," officials say.
The department originally planned to cut 54 trees on August Kranti Marg to cover a stormwater drain all the way from Panchsheel crossing to the Kamla Nehru College crossing. A cycle track and pedestrian space also featured in the earlier plan.
"This crossing otherwise faces traffic jams everyday due to irregular alignment of the existing roads. This work needs to be undertaken and completed not only for the Games but also as a necessary provision for future transport infrastructure," the PWD had said.
The PWD is now banking on the slip road — it will be constructed outside the Siri Fort auditorium crossing — to ensure the free movement of traffic towards the complex.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/trimmed-plan-for-august-kranti-marg-gets-sc-nod/617137/0
Siri fort complex : Project gets green signal after PWD cuts number of trees to be felled from 54 to 15
Thirty-nine trees in South Delhi have been spared the axe after the Public Works Department (PWD) downsized its plans to widen the "arterial" August Kranti Marg for easy approach to the Siri Fort sports complex during the Commonwealth Games this October.
The PWD had initially put in a demand for felling 54 trees to broaden the entire August Kranti Marg stretch. Its plans got the green signal from the Supreme Court on Monday only after it brought the number down to 15.
The PWD stated it was too late in the day to stick to its original expansion plans, and felt that a slip road to the sports complex would be a safer bet. Fifteen trees fall in the way of the slip road. They are located at the August Kranti Marg-Balbir Saxena Marg intersection and the parking area opposite the Siri Fort auditorium.
The PWD had first revealed its change of plans to the Central Empowered Committee (CEC) in March this year.
The Green Bench of the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice K G Balakrishnan, on Monday agreed with the CEC's endorsement of the PWD's revised plans. The court, however, added that "wherever technically feasible, transplanting of trees will be done instead of felling".
The PWD, meanwhile, terms the "shortened project" necessary. "It is estimated that even if permission is granted (for the original plan) and work is started now, the same may not be completed before the Games, leading to traffic chaos," officials say.
The department originally planned to cut 54 trees on August Kranti Marg to cover a stormwater drain all the way from Panchsheel crossing to the Kamla Nehru College crossing. A cycle track and pedestrian space also featured in the earlier plan.
"This crossing otherwise faces traffic jams everyday due to irregular alignment of the existing roads. This work needs to be undertaken and completed not only for the Games but also as a necessary provision for future transport infrastructure," the PWD had said.
The PWD is now banking on the slip road — it will be constructed outside the Siri Fort auditorium crossing — to ensure the free movement of traffic towards the complex.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/trimmed-plan-for-august-kranti-marg-gets-sc-nod/617137/0
Tongawalas mourn the death of a legacy
Monday, 10 May, 2010
"What would Delhi be without India Gate and Qutub Minar? These are just monuments. But we are a living tradition...", moaned an elderly tongawala, the day the clickety clack of tongas - that outlived the British colonial era - fell silent in the capital.
For generations, the tongas have ferried passengers - often as many as six people besides the driver - or carry loads mainly in the areas of Old Delhi.
Monday was the last day of a vocation that began during Mughal rule some 400 years ago.
The decision to phase them out was taken by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the city's main civic agency, on the ground that they were adding to the traffic woes of an already clogged Delhi.
The tonga owners-cum-drivers cannot understand why they are being spiked when the world preserves heritage.
Sixty-year-old Mohamad Harun was in tears when he spoke to IANS: "My grandfather, my father, my whole family's history is entrenched in these tongas. Delhi will not be the same again.
"Tongas have served Delhi since time immemorial. People associated with tongas were treated with respect and dignity since they provided the only mode of transportation for Delhiites. This was true even when the country became independent," he said.
Harun, father of three, spoke at a surprisingly well-kept stable at Turkman Gate, at the edge of the sprawling Mughal-built conclave known as Old Delhi.
The anger of losing their livelihood is directed at the authorities.
"The fate of more than 10,000 people and 250 horses have been sealed by MCD just because tongas require horses and are bad for the traffic in the city. If that is the case, why doesn't the MCD ban rickshaws or polluting vehicles?" Harun asked.
Shabeer, wrinkled and 80-year-old, was emphatic that injustice was being meted out to them.
"We do not cause pollution or traffic jams. We are the real symbols of the original Delhi. We have become redundant now simply because there are flyovers and the Metro."
Shabeer has been ferrying people in his tonga for over 60 years -- and has seen Delhi grow.
For Shabeer the memory he will cherish the most is that of the clip-clop sound of the tongas. And the imagery of high officials in police and administration riding horses and tongas to work -- and for pleasure.
That was in a bygone era.
"What would Delhi be without India Gate, Qutub Minar or Nizamuddin? These are just monuments. But we are a living tradition. Don't other countries protect their traditions?" Shabeer asked.
Mohammad Nazir, who has just finished one of his last rides, was equally downcast.
"True, this is a dying occupation. Our children do not want to follow it. But when the president of India can ride with cavalry, why can't the common man keep this passion alive?"
Sabeer draws a parallel with Bollywood film "Naya Daur" in which tongas got ousted by buses. "Today they are being ousted by the government in the name of modernization."
The MCD has provided job options tonga-drivers: as vendors or autorickshaw drivers.
Syed Abdullah, a tonga driver for 10 years, complained that the permits for vending licenses have been given for east Delhi.
"But most of us live in Old Delhi. Shifting goods from there to Shastri Park in the east every day is practically very difficult."
The MCD says the concerns of the tongawalas can be addressed.
"It's high time this old form of transport was cleared as it creates traffic problems in heavily congested areas," said Vijendar Gupta, former chairman of MCD standing committee.
"There is no reason for the tongawalas to complain as they are being provided with 'tehbazari' (vending licence). It will give them alternate income and employment."
Original news source http://www.prokerala.com/news/articles/a134950.html
"What would Delhi be without India Gate and Qutub Minar? These are just monuments. But we are a living tradition...", moaned an elderly tongawala, the day the clickety clack of tongas - that outlived the British colonial era - fell silent in the capital.
For generations, the tongas have ferried passengers - often as many as six people besides the driver - or carry loads mainly in the areas of Old Delhi.
Monday was the last day of a vocation that began during Mughal rule some 400 years ago.
The decision to phase them out was taken by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), the city's main civic agency, on the ground that they were adding to the traffic woes of an already clogged Delhi.
The tonga owners-cum-drivers cannot understand why they are being spiked when the world preserves heritage.
Sixty-year-old Mohamad Harun was in tears when he spoke to IANS: "My grandfather, my father, my whole family's history is entrenched in these tongas. Delhi will not be the same again.
"Tongas have served Delhi since time immemorial. People associated with tongas were treated with respect and dignity since they provided the only mode of transportation for Delhiites. This was true even when the country became independent," he said.
Harun, father of three, spoke at a surprisingly well-kept stable at Turkman Gate, at the edge of the sprawling Mughal-built conclave known as Old Delhi.
The anger of losing their livelihood is directed at the authorities.
"The fate of more than 10,000 people and 250 horses have been sealed by MCD just because tongas require horses and are bad for the traffic in the city. If that is the case, why doesn't the MCD ban rickshaws or polluting vehicles?" Harun asked.
Shabeer, wrinkled and 80-year-old, was emphatic that injustice was being meted out to them.
"We do not cause pollution or traffic jams. We are the real symbols of the original Delhi. We have become redundant now simply because there are flyovers and the Metro."
Shabeer has been ferrying people in his tonga for over 60 years -- and has seen Delhi grow.
For Shabeer the memory he will cherish the most is that of the clip-clop sound of the tongas. And the imagery of high officials in police and administration riding horses and tongas to work -- and for pleasure.
That was in a bygone era.
"What would Delhi be without India Gate, Qutub Minar or Nizamuddin? These are just monuments. But we are a living tradition. Don't other countries protect their traditions?" Shabeer asked.
Mohammad Nazir, who has just finished one of his last rides, was equally downcast.
"True, this is a dying occupation. Our children do not want to follow it. But when the president of India can ride with cavalry, why can't the common man keep this passion alive?"
Sabeer draws a parallel with Bollywood film "Naya Daur" in which tongas got ousted by buses. "Today they are being ousted by the government in the name of modernization."
The MCD has provided job options tonga-drivers: as vendors or autorickshaw drivers.
Syed Abdullah, a tonga driver for 10 years, complained that the permits for vending licenses have been given for east Delhi.
"But most of us live in Old Delhi. Shifting goods from there to Shastri Park in the east every day is practically very difficult."
The MCD says the concerns of the tongawalas can be addressed.
"It's high time this old form of transport was cleared as it creates traffic problems in heavily congested areas," said Vijendar Gupta, former chairman of MCD standing committee.
"There is no reason for the tongawalas to complain as they are being provided with 'tehbazari' (vending licence). It will give them alternate income and employment."
Original news source http://www.prokerala.com/news/articles/a134950.html
Pay to drive in congested areas of Delhi
Monday, 10 May, 2010
Before the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi government is planning to begin levying a charge on motorists for driving in congested areas of the capital, officials said Monday.
"The Delhi Transport department is working out a plan to levy a fee on motorists driving in the congested areas of the capital before the Games. The step would help in controlling number of vehicles in busy areas during the sporting event," said Delhi Environment secretary Dharmendra.
Dharmendra was speaking at a discussion 'Clean air before the Commonwealth Games' organised by the Centre for Science and Environment.
"There has been a quantum jump in the number of vehicles plying on roads in the capital in the last few years and such steps can help in checking inflow of vehicles on Delhi roads," he said.
Managing traffic during the upcoming Games is a big challenge for the Delhi government this year. The Delhi Traffic police is also planning to have dedicated lanes during the Games for swift movement of athletes and delegates.
The Indian capital is among the most polluted cities in the world. Its major problem is an ever-growing number of cars, three- and two-wheelers, which occupy a staggering 75 percent of the road space, although only 20 percent of the commuting public use them.
Delhi has over five million vehicles and another four million come to the metropolis from towns in the national capital region in adjoining states.
Many European countries levy congestion charge on motorists. A fee is charged from motorists travelling within the Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ). The charge aims to reduce congestion and raise investment funds for the transport system.
Original news source http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/Pay-to-drive-in-congested-areas-of-Delhi/articleshow/5913858.cms
Before the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi government is planning to begin levying a charge on motorists for driving in congested areas of the capital, officials said Monday.
"The Delhi Transport department is working out a plan to levy a fee on motorists driving in the congested areas of the capital before the Games. The step would help in controlling number of vehicles in busy areas during the sporting event," said Delhi Environment secretary Dharmendra.
Dharmendra was speaking at a discussion 'Clean air before the Commonwealth Games' organised by the Centre for Science and Environment.
"There has been a quantum jump in the number of vehicles plying on roads in the capital in the last few years and such steps can help in checking inflow of vehicles on Delhi roads," he said.
Managing traffic during the upcoming Games is a big challenge for the Delhi government this year. The Delhi Traffic police is also planning to have dedicated lanes during the Games for swift movement of athletes and delegates.
The Indian capital is among the most polluted cities in the world. Its major problem is an ever-growing number of cars, three- and two-wheelers, which occupy a staggering 75 percent of the road space, although only 20 percent of the commuting public use them.
Delhi has over five million vehicles and another four million come to the metropolis from towns in the national capital region in adjoining states.
Many European countries levy congestion charge on motorists. A fee is charged from motorists travelling within the Congestion Charge Zone (CCZ). The charge aims to reduce congestion and raise investment funds for the transport system.
Original news source http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/Pay-to-drive-in-congested-areas-of-Delhi/articleshow/5913858.cms
Monday, May 10, 2010
Delhi's 3 ISBTs to be transformed
Monday, 10 May, 2010
After the bus fleet of the capital has been augmented, it's now makeover time for major bus terminals. In keeping with the governments agenda of giving public transport a fillip, the three major bus hubs — Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) Kashmere Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar — are soon going to be converted into multi-modal transit centres of international standards. Delhi government is in the final stages of creating an independent company for the purpose which will independently handle the upgradation and upkeep of the ISBTs.
At present, ISBT Kashmere Gate, one of the busiest bus terminals in Asia, runs from a dilapidated building which lacks even basic facilities like clean toilets, drinking water, waiting lounges and eateries for passengers. The other two terminals are running from temporary sheds and are in an even more deplorable condition.
The temporary sheds are soon going to give way to swanky buildings which state-of-the-art facilities for bus commuters. The new bus terminals will sport an international look and will have facilities like shopping areas and food courts where passengers can wait while their buses arrive. A three-star hotel will also come up at ISBT Kashmere Gate in the second phase of renovation. This commercial development will help generate revenue for the uplift and upkeep of the terminals.
The buildings will all be state-of-the-art which will be constructed as per international standards. The terminals will all be green buildings — all modes of energy conservation like heat proof design, proper lighting and ventilation are being incorporated in the design itself.
The ultimate plan is to develop ISBTs as independent multi-modal transit centres, which will offer seamless connectivity across different modes like buses, Metro, railways, taxis and autos, and form major hubs for the public transportation system of the National Capital Region (NCR).
The renovation work has finally kicked off with work orders having been issued for the first phase of restoration of ISBT Kashmere Gate this week. Last month, Delhi governments Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) had sanctioned Rs 74.16 crore for the purpose. Work on restoration of the facade, creation of facilities like toilets, waiting areas, food courts, parking lots, etc is going to be undertaken in the first phase, which will be completed before the Commonwealth Games.
"We are making a separate company under Delhi government with the sole mandate of carrying out speedy upliftment of all the ISBTs. The company will be headed by a senior bureaucrat who will be empowered to take decisions and look into all aspects of upgradation of ISBTs," said Arvinder Singh, transport minister.
The independent company will decide the modes of investment for the renovation, whether PPP or BOT, and also look into revenue generation of the upkeep of the ISBTs. Sources said that the matter will soon be discussed in the Cabinet.
The decision was reportedly taken after the initial plan to renovate ISBTs, conceived two years ago, ran into rough weather due to lack of funds.
The government has revived a part of its work starting with ISBT at Kashmere Gate now. Transport department SPV Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS) has already finalized plans for modernization of the three ISBTs. Times City takes a closer look at what all to expect.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Delhis-3-ISBTs-to-be-transformed/articleshow/5910860.cms
After the bus fleet of the capital has been augmented, it's now makeover time for major bus terminals. In keeping with the governments agenda of giving public transport a fillip, the three major bus hubs — Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT) Kashmere Gate, Sarai Kale Khan and Anand Vihar — are soon going to be converted into multi-modal transit centres of international standards. Delhi government is in the final stages of creating an independent company for the purpose which will independently handle the upgradation and upkeep of the ISBTs.
At present, ISBT Kashmere Gate, one of the busiest bus terminals in Asia, runs from a dilapidated building which lacks even basic facilities like clean toilets, drinking water, waiting lounges and eateries for passengers. The other two terminals are running from temporary sheds and are in an even more deplorable condition.
The temporary sheds are soon going to give way to swanky buildings which state-of-the-art facilities for bus commuters. The new bus terminals will sport an international look and will have facilities like shopping areas and food courts where passengers can wait while their buses arrive. A three-star hotel will also come up at ISBT Kashmere Gate in the second phase of renovation. This commercial development will help generate revenue for the uplift and upkeep of the terminals.
The buildings will all be state-of-the-art which will be constructed as per international standards. The terminals will all be green buildings — all modes of energy conservation like heat proof design, proper lighting and ventilation are being incorporated in the design itself.
The ultimate plan is to develop ISBTs as independent multi-modal transit centres, which will offer seamless connectivity across different modes like buses, Metro, railways, taxis and autos, and form major hubs for the public transportation system of the National Capital Region (NCR).
The renovation work has finally kicked off with work orders having been issued for the first phase of restoration of ISBT Kashmere Gate this week. Last month, Delhi governments Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) had sanctioned Rs 74.16 crore for the purpose. Work on restoration of the facade, creation of facilities like toilets, waiting areas, food courts, parking lots, etc is going to be undertaken in the first phase, which will be completed before the Commonwealth Games.
"We are making a separate company under Delhi government with the sole mandate of carrying out speedy upliftment of all the ISBTs. The company will be headed by a senior bureaucrat who will be empowered to take decisions and look into all aspects of upgradation of ISBTs," said Arvinder Singh, transport minister.
The independent company will decide the modes of investment for the renovation, whether PPP or BOT, and also look into revenue generation of the upkeep of the ISBTs. Sources said that the matter will soon be discussed in the Cabinet.
The decision was reportedly taken after the initial plan to renovate ISBTs, conceived two years ago, ran into rough weather due to lack of funds.
The government has revived a part of its work starting with ISBT at Kashmere Gate now. Transport department SPV Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit System (DIMTS) has already finalized plans for modernization of the three ISBTs. Times City takes a closer look at what all to expect.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Delhis-3-ISBTs-to-be-transformed/articleshow/5910860.cms
High-tech parking lot to come up in old Delhi
Sunday, 9 May, 2010
As part of efforts to cope up with the space crunch in the capital, the MCD will construct a modern stack parking site in old Delhi, the fourth such high-tech complex to come up in the city.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has invited bids for setting up a three-level stack parking site, where cars can be kept on horizontal decks using hydraulic lifts, in New Lajpat Rai Market area on Kotla Road in Darya Ganj, officials said.
The parking site, which is expected to come up in six months, will be the fourth stack parking lot in the city. Last year, MCD had invited tenders for constructing stack or puzzle parkings in congested Karol Bagh and Paharganj areas while bids for a similar project in Shalimar Bagh was invited last month.
Original news source http://www.ptinews.com/news/645288_High-tech-parking-lot-to-come-up-in-old-Delhi
As part of efforts to cope up with the space crunch in the capital, the MCD will construct a modern stack parking site in old Delhi, the fourth such high-tech complex to come up in the city.
The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has invited bids for setting up a three-level stack parking site, where cars can be kept on horizontal decks using hydraulic lifts, in New Lajpat Rai Market area on Kotla Road in Darya Ganj, officials said.
The parking site, which is expected to come up in six months, will be the fourth stack parking lot in the city. Last year, MCD had invited tenders for constructing stack or puzzle parkings in congested Karol Bagh and Paharganj areas while bids for a similar project in Shalimar Bagh was invited last month.
Original news source http://www.ptinews.com/news/645288_High-tech-parking-lot-to-come-up-in-old-Delhi
Saturday, May 8, 2010
New traffic system will miss CommonWealth Games
Friday, 7 May, 2010
It was supposed to help Delhi lessen its perennial problem of traffic congestion but the Intelligent Traffic System (ITS) the Delhi traffic police had promised before the Commonwealth Games this October is nowhere in sight.
The Rs 200-crore project of having the intelligent traffic system in 275 places in the city by May this year is more than one-and-half-years away — the police have not even floated tenders for the same.
"We can't even start the installation process before the Commonwealth Games. We are opening tenders on May 31. The process will take a few months and I hope we can at least start the installation process after the Games," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of police (traffic), told Hindustan Times.
"We will need at least one and half years after the installation and by December 2011, the ITS should be operational in 275 identified signals."
Under the proposed ITS map, 275 traffic signals in New Delhi, Mathura Road, Delhi-Gurgaon highway (NH 8), Delhi-Noida highway would be covered and CCTV cameras installed at every point to monitor traffic movement and also identify traffic violators.
In order to tackle problems of congestion, accidents, inefficient logistics amongst other problems, the Delhi police had planned to develop a state-of-the-art traffic and communication network in the NCR by putting in place the ITS.
The system would also incorporate various existing sub-systems like Area traffic Control System, Traffic Monitoring System, Traffic Signals, Variable Message Signs, Speed Camera Systems, among others.
According to a senior police officer, who did not wish to be named, as he isn't authorised to speak to media, said: "The plan was made at least two years ago keeping in view the Commonwealth Games in 2010. Accordingly, a route map was designed covering 55 major roads, measuring 217.96 km and about 200 intersections to be covered under the system, which could provide better solutions for traffic management."
P.K. Sarkar, professor, School of Planning and Architecture, Department of Transport Planning, said at least partial installation of the ITS would have helped minimise traffic congestion during the Games.
"I was quite happy about the innovative plan of the Delhi police when I heard about it two years ago. I do not know why the department could not start the process," he added.
Delhi to have 15000 radio cabs before CWG 2010
Friday, 7 May, 2010
It will be a smooth ride for tourists and citizens during the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi as Delhi government estimates that around 15,000 radio taxis will be on the roads by October.
"There is no hurdle to obtain licences (to operate radio taxis). Anyone who fulfils the conditions can get it without difficulty. In fact, we are encouraging people to travel in DTC buses and radio cabs instead of using personal vehicles," Transport Minister Arvinder Singh Lovely said on Friday.
"15,000 radio cabs will be in operation before the Commonwealth Games which will offer a safe transport mode to people. We encourage the modern system having facilities like GPS, computerised billing among others," he said.
Earlier, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit flagged off a new radio taxi service 'YO Cabs'.
"We are launching our operations with a fleet of 100 cars. But we aim to raise the number to 1000 before the Games. Right now we have received licences to operate 500 cabs," Prabjit Singh, promoter of JAS Cabs Private Limited, said.
The cars are equipped with facilities like GPS and printers so that the vehicles can be monitored continuously and the customers can avail automatic billing.
The taxi service will be available round-the-clock in the NCR region and Delhi. The charge is Rs 15 per km.
"The drivers are trained, especially on how to behave with customers and have the knowledge of basic English. To ensure safety, their backgrounds have been thoroughly verified," Singh said.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/delhi-to-have-15000-radio-cabs-before.html
Friday, May 7, 2010
Pvt bus operators must switch on the AC in new clusters
Friday, 7 May, 2010
With the first cluster of buses meant to replace Bluelines across 32 routes expected to hit the roads before the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi government has decided that companies bidding for the next four clusters should have at least 20 per cent of their buses air-conditioned. These buses, to be procured and operated by the private operator, will complement the 250 low-floor AC buses run by the Delhi Transport Corporation.
"A fifth of the buses provided by the new operators will have to be air-conditioned. These will be procured and operated by the firm," said a senior Delhi government official.
As part of the scheme, drawn by the Delhi Integrated Multi-modal Transit System (DIMTS) in 2007 for the gradual phase-out of Blueline buses, DTC is meant to operate 60 per cent buses in each cluster. The rest will be a combination of standard and low-floor buses procured by private bus operators.
"AC buses will add value to the city's public transport system, and so we have decided to make it mandatory for those bidding for the four new clusters," the official added. The initial bids for the four new clusters, including parts of South Delhi and Dwarka, will open on May 7.
By June, DTC expects its fleet to comprise 1,250 AC and 1,875 ordinary low-floor buses. The hike in tariff coupled with the nod for standard floor buses as per specifications of the Urban Development Ministry is expected to bring down costs for private operators. Officials believe this will make it easier for them to introduce AC buses. The first cluster of 32 routes was awarded at Rs 47 per km.
As per the new model, the 657 bus routes across the city were divided into 17 clusters, each with profitable and non-profitable routes. While the government will control bus fares, the private operator will get a fixed rate per kilometre quoted for each bus it runs in the cluster.
Delhi Darshan
657 bus routes in city
17 new clusters
32 bus routes in first cluster already auctioned
1,250 AC buses expected in DTC fleet by June
The route so far
JULY 2007: Reacting to a spate of accidents involving Blueline buses, the Delhi High Court asks the Delhi government for a plan to phase out private buses
NOVEMBER 2007: Delhi government suggests a corporatisation scheme chalked out by the Delhi Integrated Multimodal Transit System (DIMTS) to phase out the Bluelines
FEBRUARY 2008: DIMTS demarcates 17 clusters comprising 637 routes
APRIL 2009: Janakpuri-based Starbus Limited emerges as the lowest bidder for the first cluster comprising 32 routes
NOVEMBER 2009: The Delhi Cabinet gives its nod to award first cluster to Starbus Limited.
MARCH 2010: Delhi government invites bids for four more clusters.
APRIL 2010: The government finally inks deal with Starbus Limited, backed by SpiceJet
APRIL 16, 2010: Delhi High Court pulls up the government for 'not doing enough' to phase out Bluelines.
Original news source http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/pvt-bus-operators-must-switch-on-the-ac-in-new-clusters/616144/
With the first cluster of buses meant to replace Bluelines across 32 routes expected to hit the roads before the Commonwealth Games, the Delhi government has decided that companies bidding for the next four clusters should have at least 20 per cent of their buses air-conditioned. These buses, to be procured and operated by the private operator, will complement the 250 low-floor AC buses run by the Delhi Transport Corporation.
"A fifth of the buses provided by the new operators will have to be air-conditioned. These will be procured and operated by the firm," said a senior Delhi government official.
As part of the scheme, drawn by the Delhi Integrated Multi-modal Transit System (DIMTS) in 2007 for the gradual phase-out of Blueline buses, DTC is meant to operate 60 per cent buses in each cluster. The rest will be a combination of standard and low-floor buses procured by private bus operators.
"AC buses will add value to the city's public transport system, and so we have decided to make it mandatory for those bidding for the four new clusters," the official added. The initial bids for the four new clusters, including parts of South Delhi and Dwarka, will open on May 7.
By June, DTC expects its fleet to comprise 1,250 AC and 1,875 ordinary low-floor buses. The hike in tariff coupled with the nod for standard floor buses as per specifications of the Urban Development Ministry is expected to bring down costs for private operators. Officials believe this will make it easier for them to introduce AC buses. The first cluster of 32 routes was awarded at Rs 47 per km.
As per the new model, the 657 bus routes across the city were divided into 17 clusters, each with profitable and non-profitable routes. While the government will control bus fares, the private operator will get a fixed rate per kilometre quoted for each bus it runs in the cluster.
Delhi Darshan
657 bus routes in city
17 new clusters
32 bus routes in first cluster already auctioned
1,250 AC buses expected in DTC fleet by June
The route so far
JULY 2007: Reacting to a spate of accidents involving Blueline buses, the Delhi High Court asks the Delhi government for a plan to phase out private buses
NOVEMBER 2007: Delhi government suggests a corporatisation scheme chalked out by the Delhi Integrated Multimodal Transit System (DIMTS) to phase out the Bluelines
FEBRUARY 2008: DIMTS demarcates 17 clusters comprising 637 routes
APRIL 2009: Janakpuri-based Starbus Limited emerges as the lowest bidder for the first cluster comprising 32 routes
NOVEMBER 2009: The Delhi Cabinet gives its nod to award first cluster to Starbus Limited.
MARCH 2010: Delhi government invites bids for four more clusters.
APRIL 2010: The government finally inks deal with Starbus Limited, backed by SpiceJet
APRIL 16, 2010: Delhi High Court pulls up the government for 'not doing enough' to phase out Bluelines.
Original news source http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/pvt-bus-operators-must-switch-on-the-ac-in-new-clusters/616144/
Clearing Lajpat Nagar Mkt
Thursday, 6 May, 2010
Shoppers at Lajpat Nagar's Central Market were in for a surprise on Wednesday when they found the usual chaotic lanes of the market easier to navigate.
Coming down heavily on illegal parking and vehicles that are parked illegally in the market, leading to congestion, the Delhi Traffic police toed away a number of vehicles in a joint operation with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). While 73 vehicle owners were fined on the spot, 61 vehicles were towed away by the Delhi traffic police in a bid to decongest the area.
According to the civic body, the drive will intensify in the coming days and other markets, especially in South Delhi, will be targeted to rein in the parking mafia and decongest these markets.
"We realised that just lodging FIRs and complaints were making no difference as far as reducing traffic congestion was concerned. We decided to carry out enforcement drives so that people would think twice before parking their vehicles in no parking zones," said Suman Majoomdar, director, enforcement cell of the MCD.
The civic agency has also given the Delhi traffic police a list of illegal parking lots run by the parking mafia who charge exorbitant amount from the people.
"The MCD had carried out a survey and we've got a list of areas where contractors are running illegal parking lots. We have circulated the list in all our departments and action would be taken," said Ajay Chaddha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
The traders were a happy lot, as they have been demanding the civic agencies to carry out such drives to ensure there is walking space for the shoppers.
"This was really needed. Finally shoppers will be able to walk freely in the market. A significant number of them had stopped coming as the main roads used to be choked," said D.N. Rajpal, secretary of Central Market.
"We have also suggested the traffic police to convert the market road into a two way once again."
The traders have also demanded that rickshaws shouldn't be allowed to ply on the main roads as they also contribute to the traffic chaos.
"We have requested the traffic police to restrict the entry of rickshaws on the main road and have suggested six points till which they can enter," he added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Clearing-Lajpat-Nagar-Mkt/Article1-539933.aspx
Shoppers at Lajpat Nagar's Central Market were in for a surprise on Wednesday when they found the usual chaotic lanes of the market easier to navigate.
Coming down heavily on illegal parking and vehicles that are parked illegally in the market, leading to congestion, the Delhi Traffic police toed away a number of vehicles in a joint operation with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). While 73 vehicle owners were fined on the spot, 61 vehicles were towed away by the Delhi traffic police in a bid to decongest the area.
According to the civic body, the drive will intensify in the coming days and other markets, especially in South Delhi, will be targeted to rein in the parking mafia and decongest these markets.
"We realised that just lodging FIRs and complaints were making no difference as far as reducing traffic congestion was concerned. We decided to carry out enforcement drives so that people would think twice before parking their vehicles in no parking zones," said Suman Majoomdar, director, enforcement cell of the MCD.
The civic agency has also given the Delhi traffic police a list of illegal parking lots run by the parking mafia who charge exorbitant amount from the people.
"The MCD had carried out a survey and we've got a list of areas where contractors are running illegal parking lots. We have circulated the list in all our departments and action would be taken," said Ajay Chaddha, special commissioner of police (traffic).
The traders were a happy lot, as they have been demanding the civic agencies to carry out such drives to ensure there is walking space for the shoppers.
"This was really needed. Finally shoppers will be able to walk freely in the market. A significant number of them had stopped coming as the main roads used to be choked," said D.N. Rajpal, secretary of Central Market.
"We have also suggested the traffic police to convert the market road into a two way once again."
The traders have also demanded that rickshaws shouldn't be allowed to ply on the main roads as they also contribute to the traffic chaos.
"We have requested the traffic police to restrict the entry of rickshaws on the main road and have suggested six points till which they can enter," he added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Clearing-Lajpat-Nagar-Mkt/Article1-539933.aspx
Monday, May 3, 2010
DPR of Metro's third phase submitted to UD Ministry
Monday, 3 May 2010
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has prepared a detailed project report for the proposed 84-km third phase of the Metro rail and submitted it to the Union Urban Development Ministry, DMRC Chairman M Ramachandran said here today.
Talking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the 16th Foundation Day celebrations of the Delhi Metro this evening, Mr Ramachandran, who is also the Secretary in Urban Development Ministry, said the routes to be taken up under the third phase will be decided in the coming weeks.
The third phase is proposed to link the Ring Road with the metro network and will not include any NCR areas.
When asked about the possibility of any delay in the completion of the second phase before the Commonwealth Games, he said, ''On the basis of the track record of Delhi Metro, we are confident that the second phase will be completed well before the Games.'' In reply to a question on the likelihood of DMRC going in for IPO, he did not dismiss it entirely and said it could be thought about but first, other tasks at hand were more important like the expansion of the Metro network.
Meanwhile, at the Foundation Day ceremony, Dilshad Garden station was given the Best Station Award.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/dpr-of-metros-third-phase-submitted-to.html
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has prepared a detailed project report for the proposed 84-km third phase of the Metro rail and submitted it to the Union Urban Development Ministry, DMRC Chairman M Ramachandran said here today.
Talking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the 16th Foundation Day celebrations of the Delhi Metro this evening, Mr Ramachandran, who is also the Secretary in Urban Development Ministry, said the routes to be taken up under the third phase will be decided in the coming weeks.
The third phase is proposed to link the Ring Road with the metro network and will not include any NCR areas.
When asked about the possibility of any delay in the completion of the second phase before the Commonwealth Games, he said, ''On the basis of the track record of Delhi Metro, we are confident that the second phase will be completed well before the Games.'' In reply to a question on the likelihood of DMRC going in for IPO, he did not dismiss it entirely and said it could be thought about but first, other tasks at hand were more important like the expansion of the Metro network.
Meanwhile, at the Foundation Day ceremony, Dilshad Garden station was given the Best Station Award.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/dpr-of-metros-third-phase-submitted-to.html
Proposed: 17 new flyovers for Delhi
Monday, 3 May 2010
If you thought all construction activities in Delhi would come to an end after the Commonwealth Games in October this year, you are mistaken. Brace yourself for yet another round of digging from next year.
Delhi public works department (PWD) has prepared a long list of flyovers and elevated road projects "to improve movement of traffic in Delhi." While Unified Traffic and Transport Infrastructure and Engineering Centre (UTTIPEC), the agency that approves road and infrastructure projects, has already cleared a few, some projects are still in the planning stage.
"Though we have constructed many flyovers, which have solved traffic problem in Delhi to some extent, there is scope to do more," said Delhi PWD minister Rajkumar Chauhan.
Among other projects, the PWD is planning two new bridges over the river Yamuna. According to PWD officials, the volume of traffic coming from east Delhi has grown manifold in the past few years and is expected to grow more.
"The existing bridges are not enough to carry the huge volume," a PWD engineer said. A string of flyovers along the 17-kilometre stretch of Outer Ring Road from Vikas Puri to Wazirabadare among 17 new projects the PWD is working on, the engineer said.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/proposed-17-new-flyovers-for-delhi.html
If you thought all construction activities in Delhi would come to an end after the Commonwealth Games in October this year, you are mistaken. Brace yourself for yet another round of digging from next year.
Delhi public works department (PWD) has prepared a long list of flyovers and elevated road projects "to improve movement of traffic in Delhi." While Unified Traffic and Transport Infrastructure and Engineering Centre (UTTIPEC), the agency that approves road and infrastructure projects, has already cleared a few, some projects are still in the planning stage.
"Though we have constructed many flyovers, which have solved traffic problem in Delhi to some extent, there is scope to do more," said Delhi PWD minister Rajkumar Chauhan.
Among other projects, the PWD is planning two new bridges over the river Yamuna. According to PWD officials, the volume of traffic coming from east Delhi has grown manifold in the past few years and is expected to grow more.
"The existing bridges are not enough to carry the huge volume," a PWD engineer said. A string of flyovers along the 17-kilometre stretch of Outer Ring Road from Vikas Puri to Wazirabadare among 17 new projects the PWD is working on, the engineer said.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/proposed-17-new-flyovers-for-delhi.html
Study sounds alarm on rising traffic from NCR towns
Monday, 3 May 2010
It seems Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit's worries over growing number of vehicles entering capital from NCR cities and its effect on Delhi traffic are not unfounded. A government-commissioned study has found that traffic in the capital will crawl in next few years if substantial measures are not taken to check the flow of traffic into Delhi from Gurgaon, Ghaziabad and Noida.
The study predicts that in the next 11 years, personal trips within Delhi will increase by around 50% — from 120 lakh to 180 lakh — but trips from neighbouring cities will see an increase of 200%. It says that currently nearly 40 lakh trips are made to Delhi by those living in NCR towns but by 2020, over 95 lakh such trips will be made daily.
Senior government officials said traffic on roads that join Delhi to Gurgaon, Noida and Ghaziabad has witnessed a substantial increase in the past few years. Experts said everyday nearly 8-9 lakh vehicles enter the capital from these three cities. This is the reason, they said, why most parts of the main arterial roads — Ring Road and Outer Ring Road — that connect national highways and link roads to these NCR cities are experiencing major snarls.
Though traffic experts feel the commuters find new roads and routes to avoid the congestion on arterial roads, the spill-over effect has now started choking internal roads in residential colonies. With the pressure increasing on the main arterial roads, the situation is likely to worsen further.
''The traffic in Gurgaon and Noida has grown by almost 20-25% per annum and that is huge. The growth is mostly in the form of private vehicles hitting the road since public transport in these cities is missing,'' said a traffic expert.
The origin-destination survey carried out by the RITES has revealed how the exceptional increase in the private vehicles is choking the city roads. Cars and two-wheelers have become the most preferred modes of transportation for those who commute daily to their offices.
The survey suggested that private vehicles grab almost 80% of the road space, but ferries only 30% commuters. ''The average car occupancy is calculated around 2.2 persons per car. While the cars coming from NCR cities are fairly occupied, most of the cars moving within the city are used by one or two persons,'' said an official.
The survey suggested there was a need to push for more fast trains between Delhi and its adjoining cities as proposed by the NCR Planning Board (NCRPB) to take the load off roads. It noted that ''BRT corridors should be laid in areas where there was enough road space'' and that these should be connected to the Metro network. The RITES survey also suggested the need of a peripheral Metro line connecting all Metro corridors.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/NEWS/City/Delhi/Study-sounds-alarm-on-rising-traffic-from-NCR-towns/articleshow/5884394.cms
It seems Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit's worries over growing number of vehicles entering capital from NCR cities and its effect on Delhi traffic are not unfounded. A government-commissioned study has found that traffic in the capital will crawl in next few years if substantial measures are not taken to check the flow of traffic into Delhi from Gurgaon, Ghaziabad and Noida.
The study predicts that in the next 11 years, personal trips within Delhi will increase by around 50% — from 120 lakh to 180 lakh — but trips from neighbouring cities will see an increase of 200%. It says that currently nearly 40 lakh trips are made to Delhi by those living in NCR towns but by 2020, over 95 lakh such trips will be made daily.
Senior government officials said traffic on roads that join Delhi to Gurgaon, Noida and Ghaziabad has witnessed a substantial increase in the past few years. Experts said everyday nearly 8-9 lakh vehicles enter the capital from these three cities. This is the reason, they said, why most parts of the main arterial roads — Ring Road and Outer Ring Road — that connect national highways and link roads to these NCR cities are experiencing major snarls.
Though traffic experts feel the commuters find new roads and routes to avoid the congestion on arterial roads, the spill-over effect has now started choking internal roads in residential colonies. With the pressure increasing on the main arterial roads, the situation is likely to worsen further.
''The traffic in Gurgaon and Noida has grown by almost 20-25% per annum and that is huge. The growth is mostly in the form of private vehicles hitting the road since public transport in these cities is missing,'' said a traffic expert.
The origin-destination survey carried out by the RITES has revealed how the exceptional increase in the private vehicles is choking the city roads. Cars and two-wheelers have become the most preferred modes of transportation for those who commute daily to their offices.
The survey suggested that private vehicles grab almost 80% of the road space, but ferries only 30% commuters. ''The average car occupancy is calculated around 2.2 persons per car. While the cars coming from NCR cities are fairly occupied, most of the cars moving within the city are used by one or two persons,'' said an official.
The survey suggested there was a need to push for more fast trains between Delhi and its adjoining cities as proposed by the NCR Planning Board (NCRPB) to take the load off roads. It noted that ''BRT corridors should be laid in areas where there was enough road space'' and that these should be connected to the Metro network. The RITES survey also suggested the need of a peripheral Metro line connecting all Metro corridors.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/NEWS/City/Delhi/Study-sounds-alarm-on-rising-traffic-from-NCR-towns/articleshow/5884394.cms
40 lakh vehicles use Delhi roads every day
Saturday, 1 May 2010
A large population living on the fringes of the Capital - in several colonies along the state border or in satellite towns in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh - travel by their own vehicles in Delhi. Of the 35-40 lakh vehicles on Delhi roads every day, 12 lakh vehicles, almost one-third move across the city border every day.
These figures were a part of a presentation made by RITES, the central government's infrastructure consultancy company, in a meeting of the special task force (STF), constituted by the High Court to evolve a comprehensive long-term policy for a sustainable transport network. The STF is a committee of 12 members under the chairmanship of Delhi chief secretary Rakesh Mehta.
It includes officials of Delhi traffic police, transport department, Delhi Metro and representatives of NGOs working in the field of traffic and transport. With such high number of vehicles, RITES, in its presentation, emphasised the need to develop a strong public transport link of Metro trains and buses between Delhi and the satellite towns.
Unanimous on the need to curb the rising number of private vehicles on city roads every day, the STF also explored various possibilities to make people give up travel by private vehicles and make more use of public transport. Levying congestion charges on private vehicles, increasing parking charges in central vistas that are well-connected with public transport and promotion of non-motorised vehicles like bicycles and cycle rickshaws were also discussed.
"With the speed with which private vehicles are being added to city roads every day, there will be almost 1.5 crore vehicles registered in Delhi by 2030. There is an urgent need to restrict private vehicles," said an official, who was part of the STF meeting.
Original news source http://www.siasat.com/english/news/40-lakh-vehicles-use-delhi-roads-every-day
A large population living on the fringes of the Capital - in several colonies along the state border or in satellite towns in Haryana and Uttar Pradesh - travel by their own vehicles in Delhi. Of the 35-40 lakh vehicles on Delhi roads every day, 12 lakh vehicles, almost one-third move across the city border every day.
These figures were a part of a presentation made by RITES, the central government's infrastructure consultancy company, in a meeting of the special task force (STF), constituted by the High Court to evolve a comprehensive long-term policy for a sustainable transport network. The STF is a committee of 12 members under the chairmanship of Delhi chief secretary Rakesh Mehta.
It includes officials of Delhi traffic police, transport department, Delhi Metro and representatives of NGOs working in the field of traffic and transport. With such high number of vehicles, RITES, in its presentation, emphasised the need to develop a strong public transport link of Metro trains and buses between Delhi and the satellite towns.
Unanimous on the need to curb the rising number of private vehicles on city roads every day, the STF also explored various possibilities to make people give up travel by private vehicles and make more use of public transport. Levying congestion charges on private vehicles, increasing parking charges in central vistas that are well-connected with public transport and promotion of non-motorised vehicles like bicycles and cycle rickshaws were also discussed.
"With the speed with which private vehicles are being added to city roads every day, there will be almost 1.5 crore vehicles registered in Delhi by 2030. There is an urgent need to restrict private vehicles," said an official, who was part of the STF meeting.
Original news source http://www.siasat.com/english/news/40-lakh-vehicles-use-delhi-roads-every-day
Low-floor bus fleet to ply for games
Sunday, May 2, 2010
For Commonwealth Games, new low-floor buses will be ready to transport athletes, foreign delegates and officials.
According to Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) managing director Naresh Kumar, more than 3,500 buses will be deployed to ferry athletes and delegates. While the players and the team officials will be given 600-odd buses, 700 buses will be provided to Delhi police, 300 to sports authority and 1,300-1,400 will ply to transport spectators.
Kumar was speaking at a function held to flag off 197 new low floor buses. Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit flagged off the new buses.
The DTC also inaugurated its new Express Bus Service for office goers. The new service, with 72 buses, will begin from Monday morning.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/low-floor-bus-fleet-to-ply-for-games.html
For Commonwealth Games, new low-floor buses will be ready to transport athletes, foreign delegates and officials.
According to Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) managing director Naresh Kumar, more than 3,500 buses will be deployed to ferry athletes and delegates. While the players and the team officials will be given 600-odd buses, 700 buses will be provided to Delhi police, 300 to sports authority and 1,300-1,400 will ply to transport spectators.
Kumar was speaking at a function held to flag off 197 new low floor buses. Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit flagged off the new buses.
The DTC also inaugurated its new Express Bus Service for office goers. The new service, with 72 buses, will begin from Monday morning.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/low-floor-bus-fleet-to-ply-for-games.html
Metro cracks down on passengers for spitting, littering
Sunday, May 2, 2010
In order to ensure that the visitors during the Commonwealth Games find all Delhi Metro property clean, the Corporation has begun another drive to rein in commuters found spitting, littering or defacing Metro property.
According to officials, four special flying squads consisting of Metro officials have been created that are conducting surprise checks almost every day on different routes to catch erring commuters.
In March, the squads registered 195 cases of spitting and 62 cases of defacement.
"Thousands of foreign visitors are expected to use the Metro system during the Games, and we want to maintain world-class civic standards in all our trains and stations. For this, we are taking a number of measures to instill better civic sense among the commuters," a DMRC spokesperson said.
"The station staff has been specifically directed to keep a close eye on commuters found spitting, littering or defacing the Metro premises. The station managers and controllers authorised to realise penalty from the offending commuters have already been issued 'Authorised for Penalty' identity cards."
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has also roped in volunteers of the Metro Citizens' Forum to report any passengers indulging in pushing others, jumping the queue, not allowing other passengers to board or disembark the trains and obstructing the closing of doors.
In addition to the Metro helpline number, the volunteers have also been given the mobile phone numbers of senior officials.
About one million commuters use the Metro on any working day and it is expected that two million commuters will be using the system by the time the Commonwealth Games begin.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/metro-cracks-down-on-passengers-for.html
In order to ensure that the visitors during the Commonwealth Games find all Delhi Metro property clean, the Corporation has begun another drive to rein in commuters found spitting, littering or defacing Metro property.
According to officials, four special flying squads consisting of Metro officials have been created that are conducting surprise checks almost every day on different routes to catch erring commuters.
In March, the squads registered 195 cases of spitting and 62 cases of defacement.
"Thousands of foreign visitors are expected to use the Metro system during the Games, and we want to maintain world-class civic standards in all our trains and stations. For this, we are taking a number of measures to instill better civic sense among the commuters," a DMRC spokesperson said.
"The station staff has been specifically directed to keep a close eye on commuters found spitting, littering or defacing the Metro premises. The station managers and controllers authorised to realise penalty from the offending commuters have already been issued 'Authorised for Penalty' identity cards."
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has also roped in volunteers of the Metro Citizens' Forum to report any passengers indulging in pushing others, jumping the queue, not allowing other passengers to board or disembark the trains and obstructing the closing of doors.
In addition to the Metro helpline number, the volunteers have also been given the mobile phone numbers of senior officials.
About one million commuters use the Metro on any working day and it is expected that two million commuters will be using the system by the time the Commonwealth Games begin.
Original news source http://common-wealth-games-2010.blogspot.com/2010/05/metro-cracks-down-on-passengers-for.html
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