Thursday, 01 July, 2010
Hoping to ease the crunch for parking space in the Capital and end the menace of private parking attendants, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi has devised a new parking policy, which could usher in a four-fold hike in parking charges. The 140-page draft plan takes into account the city's overall needs, the traffic pattern, vehicular movement and most importantly, aims to use 'pricing' to maintain space availability.
As reported by Newsline, the new rates are based on two factors — house tax category of the area and its respective congestion level. Though at an interim stage now, if and when approved, the revised policy will be applicable across Delhi, including NDMC areas, and will bring in a hike of around 300 per cent in parking charges.
The revised policy proposes that in case of two-wheelers in areas falling under house tax Category A and B, Rs 20 be charges for the first two hours instead of the current Rs 5, Rs 30 for the next two hours and and Rs 20 for every subsequent hour. Similarly, Rs 50 and Rs 75 is proposed to be charged for four-wheelers parked in Category A areas for the first two hours and the next two hours, respectively. It proposes to charge Rs 75 for the first two hours for parking buses and mini-vans.
The authorised parking areas will further be divided into three categories depending on their respective congestion levels and the proposed rates will hence, further be multiplied by Re 1, Rs 1.25 and Rs 1.50 respectively for the least congested, congested and the most congested areas respectively.
The idea behind the revision, say officials, is to "progressively reduce the demand for parking and facilitate organised parking for all types of vehicles, restricting the use of private vehicles and encouraging public transport, and using it as a tool to bring about changes in the MPD 2021 by introducing a regulated mixed land use philosophy" among others. If implemented, the policy will go a long way in "reducing" traffic congestion in the Capital, claim officials.
The draft plan has now been sent to all stakeholders before being presented before the MCD House and Standing Committee for approval.
Peak charge for 8 hours
Car Rs 275
(Rs 50 for first two hours, Rs 225 for next six)
Bike Rs 130
(Rs 20 for first two hours, Rs 30 for next two, Rs 20 for each subsequent hour)
Original news source http://www.expressindia.com/latest-news/think-petrol-is-costly-just-see-mcds-parking-plan/640666/
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Delhi traffic snarls start in Ghaziabad
Wednesday, 30 June, 2010
Encroachments in Ghaziabad are causing traffic jams in Delhi. As a result, the Delhi government's public works department has asked the Municipal Corporation of Ghaziabad to remove illegal constructions and encroachments on the other side of the border near Anand Vihar Inter State Bus Terminal.
In a letter to the municipal commissioner of Ghaziabad, a senior public works department (PWD) engineer has said unnecessary traffic snarls are delaying the PWD's plan to widen Road no 56, to be used by athletes to travel between the Commonwealth Games Village and Yamuna Sports Complex during the Games . Road No. 56 serves as border between Delhi and Ghaziabad.
"There are several kiosks, illegal constructions and unauthorised parking lots of auto-rickshaws on the other side of the border, which obstruct vehicles turning towards Ghaziabad from Road No. 56," a senior PWD engineer said.
Ghaziabad municipal commissioner Basant Lal said, "We have already removed the tempo stand and razed a police chowki built next to the road. We informed the district magistrate about a small temple which is built next to the road."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-traffic-snarls-start-in-Ghaziabad/Article1-565092.aspx
Encroachments in Ghaziabad are causing traffic jams in Delhi. As a result, the Delhi government's public works department has asked the Municipal Corporation of Ghaziabad to remove illegal constructions and encroachments on the other side of the border near Anand Vihar Inter State Bus Terminal.
In a letter to the municipal commissioner of Ghaziabad, a senior public works department (PWD) engineer has said unnecessary traffic snarls are delaying the PWD's plan to widen Road no 56, to be used by athletes to travel between the Commonwealth Games Village and Yamuna Sports Complex during the Games . Road No. 56 serves as border between Delhi and Ghaziabad.
"There are several kiosks, illegal constructions and unauthorised parking lots of auto-rickshaws on the other side of the border, which obstruct vehicles turning towards Ghaziabad from Road No. 56," a senior PWD engineer said.
Ghaziabad municipal commissioner Basant Lal said, "We have already removed the tempo stand and razed a police chowki built next to the road. We informed the district magistrate about a small temple which is built next to the road."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-traffic-snarls-start-in-Ghaziabad/Article1-565092.aspx
Second Carriageway of Ghazipur flyover to be Opened Today
Tuesday, 29 June, 2010
After an over two year wait, Ghazipur crossing will become completely signal-free from Tuesday with the three-level grade separator at the junction becoming completely operational. PWD officials said the second carriageway of the flyover — for traffic moving from Delhi to Ghaziabad will be opened to the public on Tuesday.
''With the stretch becoming operational, the drive to Ghaziabad during peak hours will become smoother. We have completed all major works at the crossing. Minor finishing works will continue,'' said project manager Deepak Panwar.
The other carriageway of the flyover Ghaziabad to Delhi was thrown open to the public last week. The 635 meter-long, dual-carriageway underpass connecting Anand Vihar to Kalyanpuri has already been made operational. PWD officials said the drive on the stretch will be smoother by the end of this month with the completion of a 6-lane flyover on Road No 56.
Once completed, the stretch will house 14 lanes. Officials said there is a provision to add two more lanes to the stretch since a BRT corridor has been planned along it. For safe passage of pedestrians, PWD will build three foot-over bridge (FOBs) with escalators — two on NH-24 and one on Road No 56.
The 770 meter-long, eight lane elevated stretch over Ghazipur crossing was the second major road project undertaken by PWD to improve connectivity between Delhi and Ghaziabad. The flyover at Apsara border connecting the two cities is already operational. Ghazipur crossing is a critical junction for lakh of commuters traveling between Ghaziabad and Delhi. ''Though there was some relief for straight-moving traffic after PWD reworked the traffic circulation plan, the opening of both carriageways of the flyover will make the drive hassle-free. We will still be made to wait at the Mayur Vihar Phase II crossing. But that's not a major one,'' said Radhamohan, a daily commuter.
Ghazipur crossing is one of the busiest junctions in east Delhi. As per earlier estimates, nearly 13,000 vehicles use the crossing during peak hours, as does traffic entering Delhi from other states.
Original news source http://2010commonwealthgamesindia.blogspot.com/2010/06/second-carriageway-of-ghazipur-flyover.html
After an over two year wait, Ghazipur crossing will become completely signal-free from Tuesday with the three-level grade separator at the junction becoming completely operational. PWD officials said the second carriageway of the flyover — for traffic moving from Delhi to Ghaziabad will be opened to the public on Tuesday.
''With the stretch becoming operational, the drive to Ghaziabad during peak hours will become smoother. We have completed all major works at the crossing. Minor finishing works will continue,'' said project manager Deepak Panwar.
The other carriageway of the flyover Ghaziabad to Delhi was thrown open to the public last week. The 635 meter-long, dual-carriageway underpass connecting Anand Vihar to Kalyanpuri has already been made operational. PWD officials said the drive on the stretch will be smoother by the end of this month with the completion of a 6-lane flyover on Road No 56.
Once completed, the stretch will house 14 lanes. Officials said there is a provision to add two more lanes to the stretch since a BRT corridor has been planned along it. For safe passage of pedestrians, PWD will build three foot-over bridge (FOBs) with escalators — two on NH-24 and one on Road No 56.
The 770 meter-long, eight lane elevated stretch over Ghazipur crossing was the second major road project undertaken by PWD to improve connectivity between Delhi and Ghaziabad. The flyover at Apsara border connecting the two cities is already operational. Ghazipur crossing is a critical junction for lakh of commuters traveling between Ghaziabad and Delhi. ''Though there was some relief for straight-moving traffic after PWD reworked the traffic circulation plan, the opening of both carriageways of the flyover will make the drive hassle-free. We will still be made to wait at the Mayur Vihar Phase II crossing. But that's not a major one,'' said Radhamohan, a daily commuter.
Ghazipur crossing is one of the busiest junctions in east Delhi. As per earlier estimates, nearly 13,000 vehicles use the crossing during peak hours, as does traffic entering Delhi from other states.
Original news source http://2010commonwealthgamesindia.blogspot.com/2010/06/second-carriageway-of-ghazipur-flyover.html
Violate traffic rules thrice, get auto, taxi permits seized
Monday, 28 June, 2010
Autorickshaw and taxi drivers have reasons to worry. Soon, they will be penalised for any traffic violation. If they violate the norms three times, their permits would be seized.
Traffic norm violation would include driving without uniforms, refusal to take passengers to their destinations, overcharging or misbehaving with passengers, driving without licences or permits or under the influence of alcohol and rash driving.
Delhi Traffic Police is now compiling data of auto- and taxi-drivers who are habitual traffic norms violator. The traffic police would soon hand it over to transport department with recommendation of cancellation of their permits.
Officials in the department of Traffic said that prosecution and penalty under the existing Motor Vehicle Act did not help reduce the traffic norm violations by autos and taxis in Delhi. The department has registered 1,03,885 cases of traffic norms violation till June this year.
Ajay Chadha, Special CP (Traffic) said: "Traffic violations by autos and taxis cause a lot of accidents. Besides, these public transport vehicles cause nuisance for road users. Intensif-ying prosecution and penalty didn't actually provide any significant relief. So we are recommending that the Transport department take stern action against the violators, especially the habitual ones by cancelling or seizing their permits."
Rajeev Ranjan, ACP (Road Safety), said, "A Supreme Court directive has empowered us to suspend permits of offending commercial vehicles, but we are not authorised to do the same for autos and taxis."
R.K. Verma, Commissioner, Transport Department said: "After receiving data from Delhi Traffic police we will cancel permits of those violators who were not prosecuted by court."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Violate-traffic-rules-thrice-get-auto-taxi-permits-seized/Article1-564530.aspx
Autorickshaw and taxi drivers have reasons to worry. Soon, they will be penalised for any traffic violation. If they violate the norms three times, their permits would be seized.
Traffic norm violation would include driving without uniforms, refusal to take passengers to their destinations, overcharging or misbehaving with passengers, driving without licences or permits or under the influence of alcohol and rash driving.
Delhi Traffic Police is now compiling data of auto- and taxi-drivers who are habitual traffic norms violator. The traffic police would soon hand it over to transport department with recommendation of cancellation of their permits.
Officials in the department of Traffic said that prosecution and penalty under the existing Motor Vehicle Act did not help reduce the traffic norm violations by autos and taxis in Delhi. The department has registered 1,03,885 cases of traffic norms violation till June this year.
Ajay Chadha, Special CP (Traffic) said: "Traffic violations by autos and taxis cause a lot of accidents. Besides, these public transport vehicles cause nuisance for road users. Intensif-ying prosecution and penalty didn't actually provide any significant relief. So we are recommending that the Transport department take stern action against the violators, especially the habitual ones by cancelling or seizing their permits."
Rajeev Ranjan, ACP (Road Safety), said, "A Supreme Court directive has empowered us to suspend permits of offending commercial vehicles, but we are not authorised to do the same for autos and taxis."
R.K. Verma, Commissioner, Transport Department said: "After receiving data from Delhi Traffic police we will cancel permits of those violators who were not prosecuted by court."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Violate-traffic-rules-thrice-get-auto-taxi-permits-seized/Article1-564530.aspx
Monday, June 28, 2010
Delhi set to witness traffic chaos during Commonwealth Games
Monday, 27 June, 2010
The long traffic queues in Delhi could get even longer in October during the Commonwealth Games.The traffic police plan to block one lane on all major roads that lead to over a dozen Games venues.
In order to make sure that the players and officials get to the various stadiums on time, special dedicated lanes will be created but that means that the rest of the Delhiites will have to jostle for space in the remaining two lanes.
Security is being cited as another reason and it may not be easy for those who want to jump the queue.
Alerting the citizens of Delhi, Suresh Kalmadi, Chairman Commonwealth Games Organising Committee said," Special lanes are being made for players so please don't go into that or you may be behind bars."
"I am sure that the citizens of Delhi will cooperate," said Delhi Chief Minister, Sheila Dikshit.
Schools have also been ordered shut during the Commonwealth Games to reduce the number of buses on the roads.
However, many residents of Delhi are worried.
"These games are not for Delhi. They have given us holidays as they want all of us to leave. There will be a lot of traffic chaos on the streets during those days," said Mahendra, a Delhi resident.
"I am going to make sure that I am not here for a month, I will go to Punjab. It is difficult to drive now, it will be impossible then," said Karnal Singh, cab driver.
The organising committee has promised a mega show but for many on the streets the Games could end up being a show stopper.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/delhi-set-to-witness-traffic-chaos-during-commonwealth-games-34158?cp
The long traffic queues in Delhi could get even longer in October during the Commonwealth Games.The traffic police plan to block one lane on all major roads that lead to over a dozen Games venues.
In order to make sure that the players and officials get to the various stadiums on time, special dedicated lanes will be created but that means that the rest of the Delhiites will have to jostle for space in the remaining two lanes.
Security is being cited as another reason and it may not be easy for those who want to jump the queue.
Alerting the citizens of Delhi, Suresh Kalmadi, Chairman Commonwealth Games Organising Committee said," Special lanes are being made for players so please don't go into that or you may be behind bars."
"I am sure that the citizens of Delhi will cooperate," said Delhi Chief Minister, Sheila Dikshit.
Schools have also been ordered shut during the Commonwealth Games to reduce the number of buses on the roads.
However, many residents of Delhi are worried.
"These games are not for Delhi. They have given us holidays as they want all of us to leave. There will be a lot of traffic chaos on the streets during those days," said Mahendra, a Delhi resident.
"I am going to make sure that I am not here for a month, I will go to Punjab. It is difficult to drive now, it will be impossible then," said Karnal Singh, cab driver.
The organising committee has promised a mega show but for many on the streets the Games could end up being a show stopper.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/delhi-set-to-witness-traffic-chaos-during-commonwealth-games-34158?cp
Be a traffic regulator in Delhi during Commonwealth Games
Monday, 27 June, 2010
Come Commonwealth Games and you could see the 'common man' regulating traffic on Delhi roads.
Delhi Police has invited "motivated residents" to enroll themselves as volunteers for traffic regulation during the mega sporting extravaganza to be held between October 3 and 14.
"We expect huge traffic during the event. Delhiites can help us in making the roads safer and congestion free. We have roped in cricketer Virender Sehwag to appeal to the people to join the programme," a senior police official said.
City Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal himself had earlier admitted that there could be pressure on the traffic situation in the capital during the Games and said the authorities would carry out a massive campaign next month.
According to the programme, a Delhiite who is above 18 years of age and Class XII pass can enroll as a volunteer and his services will be utilised for 20 days between September 25 and October 15.
"What you need is only a mobile phone and an email ID. If the volunteer has a driving license, it is better. Download the application from the Delhi Traffic Police website www.delhitrafficpolice.nic.in and you will soon receive your registration number," the official said.
The official said a volunteer will have to work for at least three hours a day during those 20 days at a time of his choice.
However, the official said, no remuneration will be paid as it is an "honorary volunteership".
Asked how many people will be enrolled, he said that there is no limit.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/be-a-traffic-regulator-in-delhi-during-commonwealth-games-34220?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NdtvNews-TopStories+%28NDTV+News+-+Top+Stories%29
Come Commonwealth Games and you could see the 'common man' regulating traffic on Delhi roads.
Delhi Police has invited "motivated residents" to enroll themselves as volunteers for traffic regulation during the mega sporting extravaganza to be held between October 3 and 14.
"We expect huge traffic during the event. Delhiites can help us in making the roads safer and congestion free. We have roped in cricketer Virender Sehwag to appeal to the people to join the programme," a senior police official said.
City Police Commissioner Y S Dadwal himself had earlier admitted that there could be pressure on the traffic situation in the capital during the Games and said the authorities would carry out a massive campaign next month.
According to the programme, a Delhiite who is above 18 years of age and Class XII pass can enroll as a volunteer and his services will be utilised for 20 days between September 25 and October 15.
"What you need is only a mobile phone and an email ID. If the volunteer has a driving license, it is better. Download the application from the Delhi Traffic Police website www.delhitrafficpolice.nic.in and you will soon receive your registration number," the official said.
The official said a volunteer will have to work for at least three hours a day during those 20 days at a time of his choice.
However, the official said, no remuneration will be paid as it is an "honorary volunteership".
Asked how many people will be enrolled, he said that there is no limit.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/be-a-traffic-regulator-in-delhi-during-commonwealth-games-34220?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NdtvNews-TopStories+%28NDTV+News+-+Top+Stories%29
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Qutab station to get more parking space
Thursday, 24 June, 2010
Having recorded a higher footfall than expected since the launch of the Qutab Minar-Gurgaon Metro service, the Qutab Minar Metro Station will soon have a larger parking space. Some of the areas identified for landscaping will be temporarily used for parking till the rush at the station comes down after the remaining part of the line to Central Secretariat become operational.
After an inspection of the new 14.47-km section of the Metro corridor, DMRC Managing Director E Sreedharan decided to increase the parking space at the Qutab Minar Metro Station immediately by using additional land pockets within the station, said officials. “These areas were identified for landscaping, but will be temporarily used for parking till the rush is reduced. This is likely once the entire line is connected up to Central Secretariat by this August,” an official spokesperson said.
Sreedharan also reviewed the progress of the Chhattarpur station, which is yet to be opened to the public. He also reviewed passenger facilities at the HUDA City Centre as well as the commercial complex coming up at HUDA City Centre and its integration with the Metro system. The inspection started at 8.30 am and lasted for three hours.
Sreedharan was accompanied by DMRC’s Director (Electrical) Satish Kumar, Director (Operations) Raj Kumar and Chief Project Manager Daljeet Singh.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Qutab-station-to-get-more-parking-space/637833/
Having recorded a higher footfall than expected since the launch of the Qutab Minar-Gurgaon Metro service, the Qutab Minar Metro Station will soon have a larger parking space. Some of the areas identified for landscaping will be temporarily used for parking till the rush at the station comes down after the remaining part of the line to Central Secretariat become operational.
After an inspection of the new 14.47-km section of the Metro corridor, DMRC Managing Director E Sreedharan decided to increase the parking space at the Qutab Minar Metro Station immediately by using additional land pockets within the station, said officials. “These areas were identified for landscaping, but will be temporarily used for parking till the rush is reduced. This is likely once the entire line is connected up to Central Secretariat by this August,” an official spokesperson said.
Sreedharan also reviewed the progress of the Chhattarpur station, which is yet to be opened to the public. He also reviewed passenger facilities at the HUDA City Centre as well as the commercial complex coming up at HUDA City Centre and its integration with the Metro system. The inspection started at 8.30 am and lasted for three hours.
Sreedharan was accompanied by DMRC’s Director (Electrical) Satish Kumar, Director (Operations) Raj Kumar and Chief Project Manager Daljeet Singh.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Qutab-station-to-get-more-parking-space/637833/
Relax, you can take your car out
Thursday, 24 June, 2010
You may not be prevented from driving your personal car around during the Commonwealth Games, but your movement will certainly be restricted.
Clearing all speculations, Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit said there were no plans to stop private vehicles from moving around when the Games are on.
“Private vehicles will continue to be there. There is nothing like even or odd registration number vehicles will not ply on particular days. We have prepared a traffic plan for the games,” Dikshit said.
There are more than 60 lakh vehicles registered in Delhi and 1,000 new vehicles add to this number everyday.
With Delhi traffic police reserving one lane of several arterial roads exclusively for Commonwealth Games vehicles, people fear traffic bottlenecks all across the city during those 12 days of sporting gala.
Since schools will be closed and 8,000 buses would be off the roads, Dikshit said congestion would be taken care of. She said Delhi police was making traffic plans keeping both security and accessibility in mind.
"With so many flyovers coming up, traffic movement will be smooth," she said. She added that private vehicles would not be allowed around the venues.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Relax-you-can-take-your-car-out/Article1-562213.aspx
You may not be prevented from driving your personal car around during the Commonwealth Games, but your movement will certainly be restricted.
Clearing all speculations, Delhi CM Sheila Dikshit said there were no plans to stop private vehicles from moving around when the Games are on.
“Private vehicles will continue to be there. There is nothing like even or odd registration number vehicles will not ply on particular days. We have prepared a traffic plan for the games,” Dikshit said.
There are more than 60 lakh vehicles registered in Delhi and 1,000 new vehicles add to this number everyday.
With Delhi traffic police reserving one lane of several arterial roads exclusively for Commonwealth Games vehicles, people fear traffic bottlenecks all across the city during those 12 days of sporting gala.
Since schools will be closed and 8,000 buses would be off the roads, Dikshit said congestion would be taken care of. She said Delhi police was making traffic plans keeping both security and accessibility in mind.
"With so many flyovers coming up, traffic movement will be smooth," she said. She added that private vehicles would not be allowed around the venues.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Relax-you-can-take-your-car-out/Article1-562213.aspx
DIMTS tie up with UK consultancy to solve Delhi's traffic woes
Wednesday, 23 June, 2010
Delhi Government's premier urban infrastructure company DIMTS has joined hands with Britain's leading transport research consultancy TRL to find solution to the ever growing traffic problem in the national capital.
DIMTS and Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) have signed an MoU for future collaboration and knowledge sharing in the transport sector. The agreement was signed at TRL's headquarters in Berkshire, UK.Delhi Multi Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) was set up in 2004 to implement various transport projects.Sue Sharland, TRL's Chief Executive said the association will help DIMTS find solution to the traffic problem in Delhi."Our specialist knowledge of transport systems in major cities will help DIMTS make Delhi a world showcase for public transport by facilitating a step-change in technology,"he said.S N Sahai, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DIMTS, said the MoU with TRL would help the agency formulate an effective roadmap in the transport sector for the city."Our links with TRL will ensure that creative solutions will be used to deliver our ambitious plans."With this partnership, TRL will assist DIMTS in developing solutions not only for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that is being implemented on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor, but also help develop future ITS projects that may be carried out both within Delhi as well as other states of India.
Original news source http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/850676/National/1/20/1
Delhi Government's premier urban infrastructure company DIMTS has joined hands with Britain's leading transport research consultancy TRL to find solution to the ever growing traffic problem in the national capital.
DIMTS and Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) have signed an MoU for future collaboration and knowledge sharing in the transport sector. The agreement was signed at TRL's headquarters in Berkshire, UK.Delhi Multi Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) was set up in 2004 to implement various transport projects.Sue Sharland, TRL's Chief Executive said the association will help DIMTS find solution to the traffic problem in Delhi."Our specialist knowledge of transport systems in major cities will help DIMTS make Delhi a world showcase for public transport by facilitating a step-change in technology,"he said.S N Sahai, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DIMTS, said the MoU with TRL would help the agency formulate an effective roadmap in the transport sector for the city."Our links with TRL will ensure that creative solutions will be used to deliver our ambitious plans."With this partnership, TRL will assist DIMTS in developing solutions not only for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that is being implemented on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor, but also help develop future ITS projects that may be carried out both within Delhi as well as other states of India.
Original news source http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/850676/National/1/20/1
DIMTS tie up with UK consultancy to solve Delhi's traffic woes
Wednesday, 23 June, 2010
Delhi Government's premier urban infrastructure company DIMTS has joined hands with Britain's leading transport research consultancy TRL to find solution to the ever growing traffic problem in the national capital.
DIMTS and Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) have signed an MoU for future collaboration and knowledge sharing in the transport sector. The agreement was signed at TRL's headquarters in Berkshire, UK.Delhi Multi Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) was set up in 2004 to implement various transport projects.Sue Sharland, TRL's Chief Executive said the association will help DIMTS find solution to the traffic problem in Delhi."Our specialist knowledge of transport systems in major cities will help DIMTS make Delhi a world showcase for public transport by facilitating a step-change in technology,"he said.S N Sahai, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DIMTS, said the MoU with TRL would help the agency formulate an effective roadmap in the transport sector for the city."Our links with TRL will ensure that creative solutions will be used to deliver our ambitious plans."With this partnership, TRL will assist DIMTS in developing solutions not only for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that is being implemented on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor, but also help develop future ITS projects that may be carried out both within Delhi as well as other states of India.
Original news source http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/850676/National/1/20/1
Delhi Government's premier urban infrastructure company DIMTS has joined hands with Britain's leading transport research consultancy TRL to find solution to the ever growing traffic problem in the national capital.
DIMTS and Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) have signed an MoU for future collaboration and knowledge sharing in the transport sector. The agreement was signed at TRL's headquarters in Berkshire, UK.Delhi Multi Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) was set up in 2004 to implement various transport projects.Sue Sharland, TRL's Chief Executive said the association will help DIMTS find solution to the traffic problem in Delhi."Our specialist knowledge of transport systems in major cities will help DIMTS make Delhi a world showcase for public transport by facilitating a step-change in technology,"he said.S N Sahai, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DIMTS, said the MoU with TRL would help the agency formulate an effective roadmap in the transport sector for the city."Our links with TRL will ensure that creative solutions will be used to deliver our ambitious plans."With this partnership, TRL will assist DIMTS in developing solutions not only for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that is being implemented on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor, but also help develop future ITS projects that may be carried out both within Delhi as well as other states of India.
Original news source http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/850676/National/1/20/1
DIMTS tie up with UK consultancy to solve Delhi's traffic woes
Wednesday, 23 June, 2010
Delhi Government's premier urban infrastructure company DIMTS has
joined hands with Britain's leading transport research consultancy TRL
to find solution to the ever growing traffic problem in the national
capital.
DIMTS and Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) have signed an MoU for
future collaboration and knowledge sharing in the transport sector.
The agreement was signed at TRL's headquarters in Berkshire, UK.Delhi
Multi Modal Transit System Ltd (DIMTS) was set up in 2004 to implement
various transport projects.Sue Sharland, TRL's Chief Executive said
the association will help DIMTS find solution to the traffic problem
in Delhi."Our specialist knowledge of transport systems in major
cities will help DIMTS make Delhi a world showcase for public
transport by facilitating a step-change in technology,"he said.S N
Sahai, Managing Director and Chief Executive of DIMTS, said the MoU
with TRL would help the agency formulate an effective roadmap in the
transport sector for the city."Our links with TRL will ensure that
creative solutions will be used to deliver our ambitious plans."With
this partnership, TRL will assist DIMTS in developing solutions not
only for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that is being
implemented on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridor, but also help
develop future ITS projects that may be carried out both within Delhi
as well as other states of India.
Original news source
http://www.indiareport.com/India-usa-uk-news/latest-news/850676/National/1/20/1
Monday, June 21, 2010
Delhi Metro reaches Gurgaon
Monday, 21 June, 2010
A Delhi Metro train chugged into Gurgaon on Monday, bringing the satellite city a little closer to the national capital and fulfilling the desire of millions of its residents for an effective transport system.
Without much fanfare, the 14.47 km link connecting Qutub Minar to HUDA (Haryana Urban Development Authority) City Centre in Gurgaon was thrown open to the public at 8 AM as revenue services commenced simultaneously at both stations.
There was no formal inaugural function.
A brand-new broad gauge train, which began its first journey at 8 AM from Qutub Minar, chugged into HUDA City Centre station at around 8.30 AM.
With this, Gurgaon has become the second satellite city to get Metro connectivity after Noida, where it reached last November.
People of the Millennium City have been waiting for an effective transport system to travel to and from Delhi and the launch of Metro services is likely to ease some pressure on road traffic.
The mood was jubilant at both the stations where hundreds of people waited to enjoy the Metro comfort.
Some people said they were waiting at the stations from 6 AM in the morning to take a ride on the first train that goes to Gurgaon.
Aakansha, software professional who works at a private firm in Gurgaon, said, "Now I will have a comfortable ride to my office. I don't have to worry about traffic jam and other things".
To facilitate easy movement of passengers from Qutub Minar to Central Delhi, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will run connecting bus services from Qutub Minar Metro station to Central Secretariat Metro station from 6.15 am to 11.45 pm.
Officials said the details and the frequency are being worked out and it is likely that the buses will run at a frequency of 10 minutes.
DMRC will initially put five trains on the corridor that will connect Gurgaon with south Delhi which will run at a frequency of 12 minutes, a DMRC spokesman said, adding the number of trains will be increased gradually.
Passengers can cover the entire 14.47 km distance in around 27 minutes at a rate of Rs 18, while the minimum ticket rate is priced at Rs 8.
The DMRC has made special arrangements at all stations to help the commuters get tokens and other things on the first day today.
The line has 10 stations. Trains will not stop at the Chhattarpur Metro station initially as this station is likely to be opened for the public by August.
The construction work of the Chhattarpur station was delayed as the land for building of the station was not available with DMRC till October last year.
The DMRC is now constructing the station in record time using pre fabricated steel structures.
This section will be integrated with the under-construction Central Secretariat-Qutub Minar line next month which will ultimately be added to the existing Jehangirpuri-Central Secretariat line.
The DMRC will then run 60 trains on the entire stretch at a frequency of 3 minutes.
Once the entire section (HUDA City Centre-Central Secretariat) becomes operational, passengers can hope to reach the millennium city in around an hour from Connaught Place in the heart of Delhi.
Over 100 Customer Facilitation Agents are likely to be deployed as a special measure at all the stations to help them use gates, lifts and escalators and guide them at platforms and circulating area of the station.
Besides this, special Customer Care Centres will also be set up at all stations of this line for passenger convenience.
The mood is already jubilant in the satellite city with people deciding to commute through metro to reach Delhi.
The remaining part of the corridor from Qutub Minar to Central Secretariat is expected to be open by the end of July.
Ultimately, the line will be integrated with the existing Line 2 (Jehangirpuri-Central Secretariat).
The Central Secretariat-HUDA City Centre line, built at a total cost of Rs 3,720 crore, is expected to add over 3.4 lakh people to the Metro system by 2011.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/news/delhi-metro-reaches-gurgaon/124916-3.html?from=tn
A Delhi Metro train chugged into Gurgaon on Monday, bringing the satellite city a little closer to the national capital and fulfilling the desire of millions of its residents for an effective transport system.
Without much fanfare, the 14.47 km link connecting Qutub Minar to HUDA (Haryana Urban Development Authority) City Centre in Gurgaon was thrown open to the public at 8 AM as revenue services commenced simultaneously at both stations.
There was no formal inaugural function.
A brand-new broad gauge train, which began its first journey at 8 AM from Qutub Minar, chugged into HUDA City Centre station at around 8.30 AM.
With this, Gurgaon has become the second satellite city to get Metro connectivity after Noida, where it reached last November.
People of the Millennium City have been waiting for an effective transport system to travel to and from Delhi and the launch of Metro services is likely to ease some pressure on road traffic.
The mood was jubilant at both the stations where hundreds of people waited to enjoy the Metro comfort.
Some people said they were waiting at the stations from 6 AM in the morning to take a ride on the first train that goes to Gurgaon.
Aakansha, software professional who works at a private firm in Gurgaon, said, "Now I will have a comfortable ride to my office. I don't have to worry about traffic jam and other things".
To facilitate easy movement of passengers from Qutub Minar to Central Delhi, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) will run connecting bus services from Qutub Minar Metro station to Central Secretariat Metro station from 6.15 am to 11.45 pm.
Officials said the details and the frequency are being worked out and it is likely that the buses will run at a frequency of 10 minutes.
DMRC will initially put five trains on the corridor that will connect Gurgaon with south Delhi which will run at a frequency of 12 minutes, a DMRC spokesman said, adding the number of trains will be increased gradually.
Passengers can cover the entire 14.47 km distance in around 27 minutes at a rate of Rs 18, while the minimum ticket rate is priced at Rs 8.
The DMRC has made special arrangements at all stations to help the commuters get tokens and other things on the first day today.
The line has 10 stations. Trains will not stop at the Chhattarpur Metro station initially as this station is likely to be opened for the public by August.
The construction work of the Chhattarpur station was delayed as the land for building of the station was not available with DMRC till October last year.
The DMRC is now constructing the station in record time using pre fabricated steel structures.
This section will be integrated with the under-construction Central Secretariat-Qutub Minar line next month which will ultimately be added to the existing Jehangirpuri-Central Secretariat line.
The DMRC will then run 60 trains on the entire stretch at a frequency of 3 minutes.
Once the entire section (HUDA City Centre-Central Secretariat) becomes operational, passengers can hope to reach the millennium city in around an hour from Connaught Place in the heart of Delhi.
Over 100 Customer Facilitation Agents are likely to be deployed as a special measure at all the stations to help them use gates, lifts and escalators and guide them at platforms and circulating area of the station.
Besides this, special Customer Care Centres will also be set up at all stations of this line for passenger convenience.
The mood is already jubilant in the satellite city with people deciding to commute through metro to reach Delhi.
The remaining part of the corridor from Qutub Minar to Central Secretariat is expected to be open by the end of July.
Ultimately, the line will be integrated with the existing Line 2 (Jehangirpuri-Central Secretariat).
The Central Secretariat-HUDA City Centre line, built at a total cost of Rs 3,720 crore, is expected to add over 3.4 lakh people to the Metro system by 2011.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/news/delhi-metro-reaches-gurgaon/124916-3.html?from=tn
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Traffic police begin removing beggars
Saturday, 19 June, 2010
The Delhi Traffic Police have identified several locations in the city where huge number of beggars operate from and deployed its men to remove all of them.
This comes close on the heels of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit urging the administration to make the Capital beggar-free before the Commonwealth Games.
Now, the Department of Social Welfare and Delhi Traffic Police have started work to make the city free from beggars.
Areas from where beggars operate include Karkari More in East Delhi, Ashram Chowk in South East Delhi, Moti Bagh Chowk in South Delhi, Subramaniam Bharti-Zakir Hussain Intersection in New Delhi, Delhi Gate in Central Delhi, Chatta Rail in North Delhi and Camp Chowk in North West Delhi.
"We have received a letter from State Home department a few days ago urging us to help the Social Welfare Department to make Delhi streets free from beggars. Beggar removal drive has just been started from these locations," said Ajay Chadha, Special CP Traffic.
According to the department sources, it is expecting to process around 2,500 to 3,000 beggars from Delhi.
But beggars from the city are defiant. Ramjan, who begs at Delhi Gate, said, "The government, which cannot take care of our livelihood, has no right to snatch our only means of survival."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-police-begin-removing-beggars/Article1-559878.aspx
The Delhi Traffic Police have identified several locations in the city where huge number of beggars operate from and deployed its men to remove all of them.
This comes close on the heels of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit urging the administration to make the Capital beggar-free before the Commonwealth Games.
Now, the Department of Social Welfare and Delhi Traffic Police have started work to make the city free from beggars.
Areas from where beggars operate include Karkari More in East Delhi, Ashram Chowk in South East Delhi, Moti Bagh Chowk in South Delhi, Subramaniam Bharti-Zakir Hussain Intersection in New Delhi, Delhi Gate in Central Delhi, Chatta Rail in North Delhi and Camp Chowk in North West Delhi.
"We have received a letter from State Home department a few days ago urging us to help the Social Welfare Department to make Delhi streets free from beggars. Beggar removal drive has just been started from these locations," said Ajay Chadha, Special CP Traffic.
According to the department sources, it is expecting to process around 2,500 to 3,000 beggars from Delhi.
But beggars from the city are defiant. Ramjan, who begs at Delhi Gate, said, "The government, which cannot take care of our livelihood, has no right to snatch our only means of survival."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-police-begin-removing-beggars/Article1-559878.aspx
Friday, June 18, 2010
Govt shows the ‘right way’ for marathon, cycling events
Friday, 18 June, 2010
With only a little over three months left for the Commonwealth Games, the route for the marathon and cycling events drafted by the Games Organising Committee (OC) has been changed.
The original route had come under fire from both the Delhi Traffic Police and the Delhi government as it had two stadiums and four hospitals falling en route.
Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta had also written to the OC, stating either the events should be rescheduled or the venue shifted to Greater Noida. The OC, however, refused to take the event to the suburbs.
While the routes were changed recently and made common for both the events, the Delhi government held a high-level meeting on Thursday to discuss the preparedness for both the contests.
"The route suggested by them (OC) was in a loop, which meant that nobody could enter or exit from either sides, especially in and around India Gate and Connaught Place. It would have affected movement of patients to four hospitals. We could not have taken such a risk," said Ajay Chadha, Special Commissioner (Traffic).
As per the original plan drafted by the OC, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Lok Nayak Hospital, GB Pant Hospital and Guru Nanak Eye Centre fell en route to both the events.
"We could have managed to hold the marathon as the roads would have remained shut only for 3-4 hours. But cycling is a day-long event and this route would have affected not just VIP movement but even athletes headed to SP Mukerjee Stadium and Talkatora Stadium," Chadha added.
Originally, the marathon was to begin from Rafi Marg, go towards the C-Hexagon, Lok Nayak Hospital and then Ranjit Singh flyover from where the runners were to go around the circle to complete the required distance.
The cycling event was to begin close to Pandit Pant Marg, head to Vijay Chowk then from the Ridge Road it was planned to cut across Simon Bolivar Marg and come on to the Sardar Patel Marg.
Now, both the races will begin from Vijay Chowk, head towards Rajpath, turn left to Janpath taking Rajender Prasad Road and will then hit Red Cross before crossing over to the Parliament Street. From here, they will go to Outer Circle and then take a left to come to Barakhamba Road heading straight to Inner Circle. They will take Minto Road from here and then hit Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg. The marathon will end at Ranjit Singh flyover.
The government is also working on providing other facilities like food and drinks en route. For security, the route will be dotted with CCTV cameras.
While cycling event is on October 10, marathon is scheduled for October 14.
New road ahead
Original Route Marathon — Rafi Marg, C Hexagon, Lok Nayak Hospital and Ranjit Singh Flyover Cycling — Pandit Pant Marg, Vijay Chowk, Ridge Road, Simon Bolivar Marg, SP Marg
Changed Route
Vijay Chowk, Rajpath, Janpath, Rajender Prasad Road, Red Cross, Parliament Street, Outer Circle, Barakhamba road, Inner Circle, Minto Road, Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/govt-shows-the-right-way-for-marathon-cycling-events/635293/0
With only a little over three months left for the Commonwealth Games, the route for the marathon and cycling events drafted by the Games Organising Committee (OC) has been changed.
The original route had come under fire from both the Delhi Traffic Police and the Delhi government as it had two stadiums and four hospitals falling en route.
Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta had also written to the OC, stating either the events should be rescheduled or the venue shifted to Greater Noida. The OC, however, refused to take the event to the suburbs.
While the routes were changed recently and made common for both the events, the Delhi government held a high-level meeting on Thursday to discuss the preparedness for both the contests.
"The route suggested by them (OC) was in a loop, which meant that nobody could enter or exit from either sides, especially in and around India Gate and Connaught Place. It would have affected movement of patients to four hospitals. We could not have taken such a risk," said Ajay Chadha, Special Commissioner (Traffic).
As per the original plan drafted by the OC, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Lok Nayak Hospital, GB Pant Hospital and Guru Nanak Eye Centre fell en route to both the events.
"We could have managed to hold the marathon as the roads would have remained shut only for 3-4 hours. But cycling is a day-long event and this route would have affected not just VIP movement but even athletes headed to SP Mukerjee Stadium and Talkatora Stadium," Chadha added.
Originally, the marathon was to begin from Rafi Marg, go towards the C-Hexagon, Lok Nayak Hospital and then Ranjit Singh flyover from where the runners were to go around the circle to complete the required distance.
The cycling event was to begin close to Pandit Pant Marg, head to Vijay Chowk then from the Ridge Road it was planned to cut across Simon Bolivar Marg and come on to the Sardar Patel Marg.
Now, both the races will begin from Vijay Chowk, head towards Rajpath, turn left to Janpath taking Rajender Prasad Road and will then hit Red Cross before crossing over to the Parliament Street. From here, they will go to Outer Circle and then take a left to come to Barakhamba Road heading straight to Inner Circle. They will take Minto Road from here and then hit Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg. The marathon will end at Ranjit Singh flyover.
The government is also working on providing other facilities like food and drinks en route. For security, the route will be dotted with CCTV cameras.
While cycling event is on October 10, marathon is scheduled for October 14.
New road ahead
Original Route Marathon — Rafi Marg, C Hexagon, Lok Nayak Hospital and Ranjit Singh Flyover Cycling — Pandit Pant Marg, Vijay Chowk, Ridge Road, Simon Bolivar Marg, SP Marg
Changed Route
Vijay Chowk, Rajpath, Janpath, Rajender Prasad Road, Red Cross, Parliament Street, Outer Circle, Barakhamba road, Inner Circle, Minto Road, Deen Dayal Upadhaya Marg
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/govt-shows-the-right-way-for-marathon-cycling-events/635293/0
Monday, June 14, 2010
Traffic police act as killjoys at India Gate
Monday, 14 June, 2010
Those who stayed home on Sunday after rain god smiled down on the Capital were luckier than those who went to relish the fresh air at India Gate.
Several Delhiites, who left home to enjoy the lovely Sunday evening at Delhi's favoured spot, returned home dejected. The Delhi Traffic Police had barricaded all turns at Rajpath, despite the traffic signal, preventing any vehicle from coming to India Gate.
Pedestrians, however, could still come to the war memorial. Some eager citizens parked their vehicles far and walked down, as the traffic police had closed down entry points to Rajpath three hours before scheduled time of 7.30 p.m.
"Following an instruction issued on March 17, we barricade Rajpath at 7.30 p.m. every day. But today we barricaded the area around 4.20 p.m. as over 50 vehicles gathered in the area looking for parking. We know this caused lot of problems for the public … but we were helpless. We just followed orders," said a head constable, who did not want to be named.
However, Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said that no order has been ever issued to barricade Rajpath. "Traffic police barricade the road to restrict vehicle entry as there is not space to provide them for parking. We have no alternative but barricading them to ensure there is no law and order problem at India Gate."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-police-act-as-killjoys-at-India-Gate/Article1-557288.aspx
Those who stayed home on Sunday after rain god smiled down on the Capital were luckier than those who went to relish the fresh air at India Gate.
Several Delhiites, who left home to enjoy the lovely Sunday evening at Delhi's favoured spot, returned home dejected. The Delhi Traffic Police had barricaded all turns at Rajpath, despite the traffic signal, preventing any vehicle from coming to India Gate.
Pedestrians, however, could still come to the war memorial. Some eager citizens parked their vehicles far and walked down, as the traffic police had closed down entry points to Rajpath three hours before scheduled time of 7.30 p.m.
"Following an instruction issued on March 17, we barricade Rajpath at 7.30 p.m. every day. But today we barricaded the area around 4.20 p.m. as over 50 vehicles gathered in the area looking for parking. We know this caused lot of problems for the public … but we were helpless. We just followed orders," said a head constable, who did not want to be named.
However, Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said that no order has been ever issued to barricade Rajpath. "Traffic police barricade the road to restrict vehicle entry as there is not space to provide them for parking. We have no alternative but barricading them to ensure there is no law and order problem at India Gate."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-police-act-as-killjoys-at-India-Gate/Article1-557288.aspx
Delhi-Gurgaon Metro to open on Wed
Sunday, 13 June, 2010
There has been clearance of decks for opening of the metro line between Qutab Minar and Gurgaon in the recent week, post the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation got the mandatory certificate of clearance, ending Gurgaon's long wait for a way of transportation to Delhi.
The corridor of distance 14.47km connecting Gurgaon with South Delhi is expected to be inaugurated by this Wednesday by Chief Minister of Delhi Sheila Dikshit, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, her Haryana counterpart and S Jaipal Reddy, Minster of Union Urban Development. The Sources said that the precise date of the inaugural ceremony will come to know later as the certificate was granted only yesterday.
The metro line was inspected by the Metro Rail Safety Commissioner RK Kardam yesterday only and the necessary certificate was also granted.
There would be some changes made in the line which were asked to do so by Kardam before the line opens. The long waited metro, which is an effective way of transportation and needed by the people to communicate would finally be started and would ease and lessen the traffic on roads.
Initially, there would be eight trains put up on the line and later the number would be increased to sixty trains as the whole corridor opens up. These trains would run at a difference of 3 minutes to 4 minutes.
Earlier the plan was to open up the whole 27km stretch at one go. Later, it was decided to be opened up in two phases.
Other stretch which would connect Central secretariat with Qutab Minar would be opened up by mid-July. Finally, the line would be included with the other line.
The passengers would reach Gurgaon in a shorter period of time once the whole way is opened up. There would be approximately 3.4 lakh people added to the system of Metro once the HUDA City Centre-Central Secretariat line is built. It was built at a cost of 3,720 crore.
Original news source http://www.allindiatoday.com/7589/delhi-gurgaon-metro-to-open-on-wed
There has been clearance of decks for opening of the metro line between Qutab Minar and Gurgaon in the recent week, post the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation got the mandatory certificate of clearance, ending Gurgaon's long wait for a way of transportation to Delhi.
The corridor of distance 14.47km connecting Gurgaon with South Delhi is expected to be inaugurated by this Wednesday by Chief Minister of Delhi Sheila Dikshit, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, her Haryana counterpart and S Jaipal Reddy, Minster of Union Urban Development. The Sources said that the precise date of the inaugural ceremony will come to know later as the certificate was granted only yesterday.
The metro line was inspected by the Metro Rail Safety Commissioner RK Kardam yesterday only and the necessary certificate was also granted.
There would be some changes made in the line which were asked to do so by Kardam before the line opens. The long waited metro, which is an effective way of transportation and needed by the people to communicate would finally be started and would ease and lessen the traffic on roads.
Initially, there would be eight trains put up on the line and later the number would be increased to sixty trains as the whole corridor opens up. These trains would run at a difference of 3 minutes to 4 minutes.
Earlier the plan was to open up the whole 27km stretch at one go. Later, it was decided to be opened up in two phases.
Other stretch which would connect Central secretariat with Qutab Minar would be opened up by mid-July. Finally, the line would be included with the other line.
The passengers would reach Gurgaon in a shorter period of time once the whole way is opened up. There would be approximately 3.4 lakh people added to the system of Metro once the HUDA City Centre-Central Secretariat line is built. It was built at a cost of 3,720 crore.
Original news source http://www.allindiatoday.com/7589/delhi-gurgaon-metro-to-open-on-wed
Rickshaws face police axe in Chandni Chowk
Saturday, 12 June, 2010
The Delhi Traffic Police's third day of decongestion drive to remove rickshaws and hand-pulled carts from Chandni Chowk on Friday got a mixed response.
While the traders welcomed the drive, saying such initiatives were long over due, shoppers were not too happy.
"This is the easiest way to move around. Why did they have to remove the rickshaws," asked Jyoti Prakash, who had come for shopping.
The traffic police officials said CNG-run mini-buses had been provided as an alternative and people were free to bring their personal vehicles in the area.
Special commissioner of police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said: "At present, we are now concentrating on regulation and not prosecution of the errant rickshaws. If needed, we will start prosecuting them once the Rickshaw Act is in place."
Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (Traffic) said the roads included in the drive are Chandni Chowk Road, Ramchandra Dahlvi Marg, Church Mission Road, Shanti Desai Marg and H.C. Sen Marg.
"A recent high court judgment has made it clear that the ban on the use of cycle rickshaws on arterial roads was not illegal. I have requested the joint commissioner of police (Traffic) to put up some boards on Chandni Chawk road prohibiting rickshaws and hand-drawn carts," said Sanjay Bhargava, general secretary, Chandni Chawk Sarv Vyapar Mandal.
But all are not impressed with this drive. Madhu Kishwar, senior fellow at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies, said, "Where else will the rickshaws ply if not in Chandni Chowk?"
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Rickshaws-face-police-axe-in-Chandni-Chowk/Article1-556437.aspx
The Delhi Traffic Police's third day of decongestion drive to remove rickshaws and hand-pulled carts from Chandni Chowk on Friday got a mixed response.
While the traders welcomed the drive, saying such initiatives were long over due, shoppers were not too happy.
"This is the easiest way to move around. Why did they have to remove the rickshaws," asked Jyoti Prakash, who had come for shopping.
The traffic police officials said CNG-run mini-buses had been provided as an alternative and people were free to bring their personal vehicles in the area.
Special commissioner of police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said: "At present, we are now concentrating on regulation and not prosecution of the errant rickshaws. If needed, we will start prosecuting them once the Rickshaw Act is in place."
Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (Traffic) said the roads included in the drive are Chandni Chowk Road, Ramchandra Dahlvi Marg, Church Mission Road, Shanti Desai Marg and H.C. Sen Marg.
"A recent high court judgment has made it clear that the ban on the use of cycle rickshaws on arterial roads was not illegal. I have requested the joint commissioner of police (Traffic) to put up some boards on Chandni Chawk road prohibiting rickshaws and hand-drawn carts," said Sanjay Bhargava, general secretary, Chandni Chawk Sarv Vyapar Mandal.
But all are not impressed with this drive. Madhu Kishwar, senior fellow at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies, said, "Where else will the rickshaws ply if not in Chandni Chowk?"
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Rickshaws-face-police-axe-in-Chandni-Chowk/Article1-556437.aspx
Traffic police to deploy over 1,000 volunteers during Games
Friday, 11 June, 2010
Come Commonwealth Games (CWG) and the Delhi Traffic police will deploy more than 1,000 volunteers to maintain a smooth flow of traffic during Oct 3-14.
'We would be deploying around 1,000 volunteers on Delhi's road during the Commonwealth Games,' Special commissioner of police (traffic) Ajay Chadha told reporters.
He said the volunteers will be provided an arm band, T-shirt, cap and certificate each. 'They would also be deployed along the CWG dedicated lane,' he added.
Asked if the volunteers will be provided any special powers, Chadha said: 'Only violation notices and chalan (fine) booklet would be issued to them.'
Original news source http://sify.com/news/Traffic-police-to-deploy-over-1-000-volunteers-during-Games-news-National-kglt4gadcfj.html
Come Commonwealth Games (CWG) and the Delhi Traffic police will deploy more than 1,000 volunteers to maintain a smooth flow of traffic during Oct 3-14.
'We would be deploying around 1,000 volunteers on Delhi's road during the Commonwealth Games,' Special commissioner of police (traffic) Ajay Chadha told reporters.
He said the volunteers will be provided an arm band, T-shirt, cap and certificate each. 'They would also be deployed along the CWG dedicated lane,' he added.
Asked if the volunteers will be provided any special powers, Chadha said: 'Only violation notices and chalan (fine) booklet would be issued to them.'
Original news source http://sify.com/news/Traffic-police-to-deploy-over-1-000-volunteers-during-Games-news-National-kglt4gadcfj.html
Traffic police to be at full strength before Games
Friday, 11 June, 2010
The Delhi Traffic Police will reach their sanctioned strength of 5,500 personnel before the Commonwealth Games (CWG) slated for October this year.
'We would reach our sanctioned strength of 5,500 personnel before the CWG,' Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said.
Currently the traffic police have only 4,417 personnel against its sanctioned strength.
According to Chadha, the help of local police would also be sought in maintaining smooth traffic flow on the dedicated CWG traffic lanes.
About 5,000 volunteers are also to be drafted to assist in maintaining smooth traffic during the Games.
Original news source http://sify.com/news/traffic-police-to-be-at-full-strength-before-games-news-national-kglt4igjgbj.html
The Delhi Traffic Police will reach their sanctioned strength of 5,500 personnel before the Commonwealth Games (CWG) slated for October this year.
'We would reach our sanctioned strength of 5,500 personnel before the CWG,' Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said.
Currently the traffic police have only 4,417 personnel against its sanctioned strength.
According to Chadha, the help of local police would also be sought in maintaining smooth traffic flow on the dedicated CWG traffic lanes.
About 5,000 volunteers are also to be drafted to assist in maintaining smooth traffic during the Games.
Original news source http://sify.com/news/traffic-police-to-be-at-full-strength-before-games-news-national-kglt4igjgbj.html
Friday, June 11, 2010
Delhi Police to rope in NGOs to regulate traffic
Thursday, 10 June, 2010
With a view to ensure seamless vehicular movement during the Commonwealth Games, Delhi Police has decided to involve NGOs and young volunteers.
Senior officials said a number of non-government organisations have approached the traffic department in this connection.
"We expect a lot of visitors during the sporting event. In addition, there will be lot of vehicular movement and we need to regulate the routes to be used by spectators and athletes. Therefore, we have decided to involve NGOs to assist us," Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said.
"We shall be training volunteers mainly from social organisations, schools and colleges to help in regulating traffic during the sporting extravaganza and manage hundreds of pedestrians," said Chadha, adding the exact number of these activists will be worked out by next month.
According to another police official, about 5,000 volunteers will be used for traffic duties.
Original news source http://dailynews.aihra.org/delhi-police-to-rope-in-ngos-to-regulate-traffic/
With a view to ensure seamless vehicular movement during the Commonwealth Games, Delhi Police has decided to involve NGOs and young volunteers.
Senior officials said a number of non-government organisations have approached the traffic department in this connection.
"We expect a lot of visitors during the sporting event. In addition, there will be lot of vehicular movement and we need to regulate the routes to be used by spectators and athletes. Therefore, we have decided to involve NGOs to assist us," Special Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ajay Chadha said.
"We shall be training volunteers mainly from social organisations, schools and colleges to help in regulating traffic during the sporting extravaganza and manage hundreds of pedestrians," said Chadha, adding the exact number of these activists will be worked out by next month.
According to another police official, about 5,000 volunteers will be used for traffic duties.
Original news source http://dailynews.aihra.org/delhi-police-to-rope-in-ngos-to-regulate-traffic/
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Get ready for 24-hr gridlock in games run-up
Thursday, 10 June, 2010
The traffic gridlock you face on the way to work and back home every day, well, it just got worse several times over.
Starting this month-end or early next, Delhi Traffic Police will begin blocking one lane of several carriageways across the city to test a traffic plan that will be in force during the Commonwealth Games in October. The restrictions will be in place for all 24 hours of the day.
Almost all of the roads along the 170-km stretch, beginning from East Delhi and leading up to the airport, will have one lane reserved for Commonwealth Games competitors and authorities. These roads, located in South, Central and East Delhi, will connect to all competing and training venues.
Traffic police expect jams on these following roads, among others: Parade Road, National Highway-8, Safdarjang Road, Kemal Ataturk Marg, Aurobindo Marg, Lodhi Road, Ring Road, National Highway-24, DND flyover, Captain Gaur Marg and stretches of Outer Ring Road. "We are only waiting for the lane markings in green to be done, and we will start the trials soon after," a police official said.
The pilot project will most likely begin at the end of this month at Vinay Marg near Ashoka Hotel at Chanakyapuri.
As part of the dry run, traffic police will start blocking one lane on these roads in phases.
Ajay Chadha, special police commissioner, said the lanes will be out of bounds for commuters throughout the day, and that traffic police personnel will be deployed to ensure commuters don't enter these lanes, which will be painted green.
He admitted people will face problems. "We know managing traffic will be a challenge," he said, "but we'll do our best to educate commuters so that traffic moves smoothly." Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit said traffic authorities will try their best to ensure traffic is not disrupted but added that trial runs were unavoidable as a lane had to be reserved for athletes during the Games.
"There is no doubt that Delhi's roads have huge traffic.
But if traffic restrictions are managed well they'll help in improving vehicular movement," she said. " It's all about enforcing the rules. Trial runs will be carried out till authorities achieve some degree of confidence in the traffic plan." But Dr P. K. Sarkar, professor of transport planning at the School of Planning and Architecture, is certain that city traffic will turn chaotic as a result of these trials.
"There is bound to be chaos," he said. "What else would you expect if a lane lies unused on a major road?" He warned that if Delhi Traffic Police does not plan the closures well, it could create a ripple effect on other roads.
"People will try to avoid blocked roads and take other routes. As a result there will be traffic jams on several roads." Traffic officials have decided to put up bollards on several roads where it is not possible to post traffic constables.
"This will physically keep commuters away," an officer said. He said there is no formal timeframe for the trial run.
"It could continue right up to and certainly during the Commonwealth Games." Rohit Baluja, president, Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE), said: "Such traffic schemes have to be planned much in advance so that agencies have time to implement it.
There seems to be lack of planning here. Every agency does its work and there is hardly any coordination between them." But that does not seem to bother the police. Chadha said if commuters don't follow the trial route, police officials could invoke Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) that makes flouting the rule an offence.
"Managing traffic would be like a challenge and it would be the last option. After this, the vehicle can be seized," Chadha said. He said there would be signage all over the city to ensure commuters find their way easily. We will also use the media effectively to educate commuters about the diversions." Sources said the traffic plans were prepared in consultation with the Delhi Police, the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, and the MCD, PWD and the NDMC. The decision to reserve a lane was taken at a high- level meeting convened by Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna.
'Levy Congestion Tax'
Union urban development minister Jaipal Reddy on Wednesday suggested that states levy congestion tax on private vehicle users.
This would discourage their use, reduce carbon emissions and smoothen traffic.
Heavy congestion tax, as it is levied in some of the busiest cities abroad, intends to discourage motorists from visiting some of the congested areas and instead force them to use public transport. Taxes are also levied on new vehicles.
Original news source http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/100923/Sports/get-ready-for-24hr-gridlock-in-games-runup.html
The traffic gridlock you face on the way to work and back home every day, well, it just got worse several times over.
Starting this month-end or early next, Delhi Traffic Police will begin blocking one lane of several carriageways across the city to test a traffic plan that will be in force during the Commonwealth Games in October. The restrictions will be in place for all 24 hours of the day.
Almost all of the roads along the 170-km stretch, beginning from East Delhi and leading up to the airport, will have one lane reserved for Commonwealth Games competitors and authorities. These roads, located in South, Central and East Delhi, will connect to all competing and training venues.
Traffic police expect jams on these following roads, among others: Parade Road, National Highway-8, Safdarjang Road, Kemal Ataturk Marg, Aurobindo Marg, Lodhi Road, Ring Road, National Highway-24, DND flyover, Captain Gaur Marg and stretches of Outer Ring Road. "We are only waiting for the lane markings in green to be done, and we will start the trials soon after," a police official said.
The pilot project will most likely begin at the end of this month at Vinay Marg near Ashoka Hotel at Chanakyapuri.
As part of the dry run, traffic police will start blocking one lane on these roads in phases.
Ajay Chadha, special police commissioner, said the lanes will be out of bounds for commuters throughout the day, and that traffic police personnel will be deployed to ensure commuters don't enter these lanes, which will be painted green.
He admitted people will face problems. "We know managing traffic will be a challenge," he said, "but we'll do our best to educate commuters so that traffic moves smoothly." Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit said traffic authorities will try their best to ensure traffic is not disrupted but added that trial runs were unavoidable as a lane had to be reserved for athletes during the Games.
"There is no doubt that Delhi's roads have huge traffic.
But if traffic restrictions are managed well they'll help in improving vehicular movement," she said. " It's all about enforcing the rules. Trial runs will be carried out till authorities achieve some degree of confidence in the traffic plan." But Dr P. K. Sarkar, professor of transport planning at the School of Planning and Architecture, is certain that city traffic will turn chaotic as a result of these trials.
"There is bound to be chaos," he said. "What else would you expect if a lane lies unused on a major road?" He warned that if Delhi Traffic Police does not plan the closures well, it could create a ripple effect on other roads.
"People will try to avoid blocked roads and take other routes. As a result there will be traffic jams on several roads." Traffic officials have decided to put up bollards on several roads where it is not possible to post traffic constables.
"This will physically keep commuters away," an officer said. He said there is no formal timeframe for the trial run.
"It could continue right up to and certainly during the Commonwealth Games." Rohit Baluja, president, Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE), said: "Such traffic schemes have to be planned much in advance so that agencies have time to implement it.
There seems to be lack of planning here. Every agency does its work and there is hardly any coordination between them." But that does not seem to bother the police. Chadha said if commuters don't follow the trial route, police officials could invoke Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) that makes flouting the rule an offence.
"Managing traffic would be like a challenge and it would be the last option. After this, the vehicle can be seized," Chadha said. He said there would be signage all over the city to ensure commuters find their way easily. We will also use the media effectively to educate commuters about the diversions." Sources said the traffic plans were prepared in consultation with the Delhi Police, the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee, and the MCD, PWD and the NDMC. The decision to reserve a lane was taken at a high- level meeting convened by Lieutenant Governor Tejendra Khanna.
'Levy Congestion Tax'
Union urban development minister Jaipal Reddy on Wednesday suggested that states levy congestion tax on private vehicle users.
This would discourage their use, reduce carbon emissions and smoothen traffic.
Heavy congestion tax, as it is levied in some of the busiest cities abroad, intends to discourage motorists from visiting some of the congested areas and instead force them to use public transport. Taxes are also levied on new vehicles.
Original news source http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/100923/Sports/get-ready-for-24hr-gridlock-in-games-runup.html
In Ahmedabad, BRT has clicked
Wednesday, 9 June, 2010
The Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) — a system where a fleet of sleek, low-floor buses run on dedicated corridors — might have come under severe criticism in the Capital since it was introduced in 2008.
But a recent study done by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation to study the impact of BRT, where it was introduced in October 2009 and runs on a 26-km stretch, shows that if implemented properly, the system can go a long way in decongesting traffic and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
The study done in collaboration with Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) Ahmedabad, found that in just seven months of its operation, 34 per cent of commuters have shifted from private vehicles to BRT. "We expect the shift to continue and reach as high as 60 per cent in the short term," said Prof. H.M. Shivanand Swamy, Centre of Excellence in Urban Transport, CEPT University who was part of the survey team.
While a majority of BRT users (40 per cent) have shifted from two and three-wheelers, the shift by four-wheeler users varies from 4 per cent to 11 per cent. The number of vehicles in Ahmedabad -- which has a population of 5.6 million - is 1.45 million and it is growing at a rate of 7 per cent every year. Of these, two-wheelers form 73 per cent of the total vehicle share.
The daily ridership has increased from 17,000 to 52,000. Interestingly, the study revealed that on Sunday the ridership is more than on week days. "This is because the BRT has connected critical points and recreation spots," said Prof. Swamy.
So what went wrong in Delhi? "Poor planning and implementation was responsible for the mess in Delhi. The corridor that was selected was narrow which instead of decongesting the traffic added to traffic snarls. Considering Delhi's traffic — the city has six million vehicles — the BRT was not properly integrated to the Capital's transport planning," said Prof. P.K. Sarkar, Department of Transport Planning, School of Planning and Architecture.
Also unlike Ahmedabad, it was not a dedicated BRT corridor and allowed other heavy vehicles in the corridor, added Prof. Sarkar. Besides Ahmedabad and Delhi, BRT has also been introduced on a pilot basis in Pune and Vishakhapatnam.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/In-Ahmedabad-BRT-has-clicked/Article1-555097.aspx
The Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) — a system where a fleet of sleek, low-floor buses run on dedicated corridors — might have come under severe criticism in the Capital since it was introduced in 2008.
But a recent study done by Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation to study the impact of BRT, where it was introduced in October 2009 and runs on a 26-km stretch, shows that if implemented properly, the system can go a long way in decongesting traffic and reducing dependence on private vehicles.
The study done in collaboration with Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT) Ahmedabad, found that in just seven months of its operation, 34 per cent of commuters have shifted from private vehicles to BRT. "We expect the shift to continue and reach as high as 60 per cent in the short term," said Prof. H.M. Shivanand Swamy, Centre of Excellence in Urban Transport, CEPT University who was part of the survey team.
While a majority of BRT users (40 per cent) have shifted from two and three-wheelers, the shift by four-wheeler users varies from 4 per cent to 11 per cent. The number of vehicles in Ahmedabad -- which has a population of 5.6 million - is 1.45 million and it is growing at a rate of 7 per cent every year. Of these, two-wheelers form 73 per cent of the total vehicle share.
The daily ridership has increased from 17,000 to 52,000. Interestingly, the study revealed that on Sunday the ridership is more than on week days. "This is because the BRT has connected critical points and recreation spots," said Prof. Swamy.
So what went wrong in Delhi? "Poor planning and implementation was responsible for the mess in Delhi. The corridor that was selected was narrow which instead of decongesting the traffic added to traffic snarls. Considering Delhi's traffic — the city has six million vehicles — the BRT was not properly integrated to the Capital's transport planning," said Prof. P.K. Sarkar, Department of Transport Planning, School of Planning and Architecture.
Also unlike Ahmedabad, it was not a dedicated BRT corridor and allowed other heavy vehicles in the corridor, added Prof. Sarkar. Besides Ahmedabad and Delhi, BRT has also been introduced on a pilot basis in Pune and Vishakhapatnam.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/In-Ahmedabad-BRT-has-clicked/Article1-555097.aspx
Delhi to have designated autorickshaw stands
Wednesday, 9 June, 2010
The national capital will soon get more than 200 designated autorickshaw stands to prevent the three-wheelers from halting and parking at random, affecting the traffic flow, the traffic police said on Wednesday.
Autorickshaw stands have become necessary because of the increased demand, a traffic official said.
To notify the auto drivers and the public, signboards indicating the 'halt and go' places for the three-wheeler will be put out in various parts of the city, he said.
He, however, said these stands would not have any water, electricity and telephone connection.
Original news source http://sify.com/news/delhi-to-have-designated-autorickshaw-stands-news-default-kgjxacchhcd.html
The national capital will soon get more than 200 designated autorickshaw stands to prevent the three-wheelers from halting and parking at random, affecting the traffic flow, the traffic police said on Wednesday.
Autorickshaw stands have become necessary because of the increased demand, a traffic official said.
To notify the auto drivers and the public, signboards indicating the 'halt and go' places for the three-wheeler will be put out in various parts of the city, he said.
He, however, said these stands would not have any water, electricity and telephone connection.
Original news source http://sify.com/news/delhi-to-have-designated-autorickshaw-stands-news-default-kgjxacchhcd.html
Friday, June 4, 2010
‘Killer’ roads to turn safe, one by one
Friday, 4 June, 2010
In a move to make Indian roads get rid of the `killer' tag, the states will identify one stretch each that can be developed as a safe road with all features of a `forgiving road'. These stretches will be designed in such a manner that they have enough safety features which lessen the chances of accidents.
The concept of `forgiving roads' has gained popularity after Denmark introduced them to bring down its road fatalities drastically. `Forgiving roads' are designed in a manner that even in case of an accident less harm is caused to the victims.
"We have already prepared a list of mandatory engineering norms and measures to ensure road safety for all central and centrally-sponsored projects. Our partner in the campaign to reduce road accidents, International Road Federation (IRF), has asked every state to identify one stretch which is prone to accidents,'' road transport and highways secretary Brahm Dutt told TOI.
He said that one road per state could be taken up as a pilot project. After carrying out the road safety audit on these stretches, appropriate engineering measures will be evolved and estimates prepared. "We can provide budgetary assistance. IRF will also generate some portion of the fund required for this improvement work,'' Dutt said. IRF chief K K Kapila said that they were talking to the World Bank to assist in this task.
The ministry has also circulated a list of measures that state PWDs and NHAI have to adopt while designing and improving roads. Top ministry officials informed all the state PWD secretaries on Wednesday that they must adhere to these norms or else their proposals would be rejected.
"Earlier, the estimates submitted by state PWDs did not specify the expenses to be incurred on safety related issues. But now the proposals must include the detailed estimate. We will not process their cases unless these norms are followed,'' Brahm Dutt said.
As per the revised safety norms, all new and existing highways will have W-beam crash barriers at the edges of medians and along the corridor to minimise fatal accidents. Similarly, all these stretches will have the provision of segregating local traffic. The list of new norms includes illumination of highways in built-up areas with round-the-clock power supply.
The ministry circular says that road safety audit (RSA) be carried out at all stages of road development. "The RSA should identify the nature of accidents from the past data to recommend specific corrective measures. All these recommendations should be duly considered and implemented,'' it adds.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Killer-roads-to-turn-safe-one-by-one/articleshow/6008892.cms
In a move to make Indian roads get rid of the `killer' tag, the states will identify one stretch each that can be developed as a safe road with all features of a `forgiving road'. These stretches will be designed in such a manner that they have enough safety features which lessen the chances of accidents.
The concept of `forgiving roads' has gained popularity after Denmark introduced them to bring down its road fatalities drastically. `Forgiving roads' are designed in a manner that even in case of an accident less harm is caused to the victims.
"We have already prepared a list of mandatory engineering norms and measures to ensure road safety for all central and centrally-sponsored projects. Our partner in the campaign to reduce road accidents, International Road Federation (IRF), has asked every state to identify one stretch which is prone to accidents,'' road transport and highways secretary Brahm Dutt told TOI.
He said that one road per state could be taken up as a pilot project. After carrying out the road safety audit on these stretches, appropriate engineering measures will be evolved and estimates prepared. "We can provide budgetary assistance. IRF will also generate some portion of the fund required for this improvement work,'' Dutt said. IRF chief K K Kapila said that they were talking to the World Bank to assist in this task.
The ministry has also circulated a list of measures that state PWDs and NHAI have to adopt while designing and improving roads. Top ministry officials informed all the state PWD secretaries on Wednesday that they must adhere to these norms or else their proposals would be rejected.
"Earlier, the estimates submitted by state PWDs did not specify the expenses to be incurred on safety related issues. But now the proposals must include the detailed estimate. We will not process their cases unless these norms are followed,'' Brahm Dutt said.
As per the revised safety norms, all new and existing highways will have W-beam crash barriers at the edges of medians and along the corridor to minimise fatal accidents. Similarly, all these stretches will have the provision of segregating local traffic. The list of new norms includes illumination of highways in built-up areas with round-the-clock power supply.
The ministry circular says that road safety audit (RSA) be carried out at all stages of road development. "The RSA should identify the nature of accidents from the past data to recommend specific corrective measures. All these recommendations should be duly considered and implemented,'' it adds.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Killer-roads-to-turn-safe-one-by-one/articleshow/6008892.cms
Facebook helps cops find solutions to traffic woes
Friday, 4 June, 2010
Recently, the Delhi Traffic Police (DTP) issued a strict notification about the restriction on the number of students in maxi cabs and school buses. The new guideline said a maxi cab could only carry 50 per cent more students than the sitting capacity. The DTP has also made it that strict action would be taken if any school is found violating guideline.
The DTP have been working towards turning certain roads pedestrian-friendly by giving a phase for pedestrian crossing.
The department has taken initiative to put visible signs mentioning zones for parking and no parking, tow-away zones, taxi-, bus- and auto-zones, along with others.
The citizens have Facebook to thank for all these actions. Ajay Chadha, Special CP (Traffic), said the above-mentioned initiatives have been taken based on the complaints and suggestions received by DTP through the social networking site.
"Facebook has proven to be a unique tool. The posts (on the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page) help us identify problems, and give us direction towards working out solutions. With the active participation and co-operation of all through the networking site, we are confident to manage traffic efficiently during Commonwealth Games and after as well," said an enthusiastic Chadha.
Official sources said the department has initiated action on at least 10 such complaints and suggestions made through Facebook so far.
Overwhelmed with the suggestions and complaints, the department head issued an order to all DCPs on Friday: monitor Facebook every day, reply to the complainants there and initiate action.
The DTP logged on to the popular networking sites, Facebook and Twitter, about a month ago. The idea was to provide information about their new plans and initiatives, along with making the users aware about traffic condition.
Besides this, the DTP seeks suggestions, reactions and views from Delhiites.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Facebook-helps-cops-find-solutions-to-traffic-woes/Article1-553222.aspx
Recently, the Delhi Traffic Police (DTP) issued a strict notification about the restriction on the number of students in maxi cabs and school buses. The new guideline said a maxi cab could only carry 50 per cent more students than the sitting capacity. The DTP has also made it that strict action would be taken if any school is found violating guideline.
The DTP have been working towards turning certain roads pedestrian-friendly by giving a phase for pedestrian crossing.
The department has taken initiative to put visible signs mentioning zones for parking and no parking, tow-away zones, taxi-, bus- and auto-zones, along with others.
The citizens have Facebook to thank for all these actions. Ajay Chadha, Special CP (Traffic), said the above-mentioned initiatives have been taken based on the complaints and suggestions received by DTP through the social networking site.
"Facebook has proven to be a unique tool. The posts (on the Delhi Traffic Police Facebook page) help us identify problems, and give us direction towards working out solutions. With the active participation and co-operation of all through the networking site, we are confident to manage traffic efficiently during Commonwealth Games and after as well," said an enthusiastic Chadha.
Official sources said the department has initiated action on at least 10 such complaints and suggestions made through Facebook so far.
Overwhelmed with the suggestions and complaints, the department head issued an order to all DCPs on Friday: monitor Facebook every day, reply to the complainants there and initiate action.
The DTP logged on to the popular networking sites, Facebook and Twitter, about a month ago. The idea was to provide information about their new plans and initiatives, along with making the users aware about traffic condition.
Besides this, the DTP seeks suggestions, reactions and views from Delhiites.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Facebook-helps-cops-find-solutions-to-traffic-woes/Article1-553222.aspx
Delhi Lt.Governor finalises Games traffic plan
Thursday, 3 June, 2010
Delhi Lt. Governor Tejendra Khanna Thursday held a meeting with officials from the Delhi government, police and the Commonwealth Games organising committee to finalise traffic and transport plans for the mega-event.
The discussions focused on plans for transportation, entry and exit of visitors, athletes, media, performing artists besides parking of vehicles during the Games scheduled October 3-14.
A presentation was also made on 'Transportation sub-plans for the opening day' and 'Lane reservations for Commonwealth Games traffic', prepared by the event's special advisor R. Narayanswamy.
"The issue of lane reservation on roads for accredited vehicles during the Games was finalised and accordingly approval for the painting of the reserved lane was given by the lt. governor," a Raj Bhavan official said.
The meeting was attended among others by organising committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi and Delhi Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta.
Original news source http://www.dailytimesindia.com/2010/06/129537.htm
Delhi Lt. Governor Tejendra Khanna Thursday held a meeting with officials from the Delhi government, police and the Commonwealth Games organising committee to finalise traffic and transport plans for the mega-event.
The discussions focused on plans for transportation, entry and exit of visitors, athletes, media, performing artists besides parking of vehicles during the Games scheduled October 3-14.
A presentation was also made on 'Transportation sub-plans for the opening day' and 'Lane reservations for Commonwealth Games traffic', prepared by the event's special advisor R. Narayanswamy.
"The issue of lane reservation on roads for accredited vehicles during the Games was finalised and accordingly approval for the painting of the reserved lane was given by the lt. governor," a Raj Bhavan official said.
The meeting was attended among others by organising committee chairman Suresh Kalmadi and Delhi Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta.
Original news source http://www.dailytimesindia.com/2010/06/129537.htm
Green panel whip on MCD: Build parking lots by Aug
Thursday, 3 June, 2010
The Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) has put the MCD on notice. It has asked the civic body to provide parking on 3,000-odd commercial and mixed-land-use streets by August.
''If the MCD fails to meet the deadline, EPCA will declare these streets no-parking zones and the civic agency will have to give back the Rs 811 crore that it has collected from traders in the form of conversion, parking and registration charges over the past four years,'' said EPCA member Sunita Narain. EPCA is monitoring the government's parking policy according to Supreme Court guidelines.
The MCD had collected the amount from traders to upgrade infrastructure and, particularly, create parking lots. But not a single parking lot has come up in the past four years.
MCD press and information director Deep Mathur told TOI: ''The money collected as conversion and parking charges is being used for various parking projects. We are also using it for other development projects such as upgradation of roads. There are thousands of traders who are yet to pay the conversion and parking charges and the civic agency is sealing their properties.''
But some officials in the civic agency admitted that a large chunk of the money collected had not been used as the parking projects had been inordinately delayed.
'Secretary of Lajpat Nagar Traders' Association D N Rajpal said: ''Each trader in Lajpat Nagar has paid Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh as conversion and parking charges but we are yet to be provided with a solution to the parking problem. On top of that, the civic agency has told us not to park our cars in front of our shops. We, too, don't want to park our cars in front of our shops but what alternative do we have?''
When asked about the delay, MCD officials said most companies were not willing to invest in parking projects.
''The automated parking projects were conceptualised on a build-operate-transfer basis but companies were not keen as most of the projects involved an investment of Rs 200 crore. In many cases, like the car parking project at Rani Bagh, we had to call tenders thrice before any company showed interest.''
There are 143 surface parking sites in the city which can accommodate 15,000 vehicles. Delhi has over 60 lakh registered vehicles. With parking problems increasing by the day, the civic agency has floated tenders for 120 surface parking projects. It has also lined up several stack parking, automated multi-level parking and conventional parking projects.
The multi-level parking project was conceptualised way back in 2003. An MCD official said: ''Fourteen multi-level parkings will be constructed. While work has started in Kamla Nagar after a delay of three years, tenders have been awarded for five sites. DIMTS has been appointed project management consultant for four sites and three sites are still under consideration.''
The parking lots will come up in Kamla Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Defence Colony, Shastri Park and South Extension Part-I and Part-II. These will provide parking space for 9,428 cars.
MCD had also hired consultants to identify strip parking sites along footpaths on the 3,000-odd commercial and mixed-land-use streets. The consultant has till date submitted reports for Karol Bagh and Paharganj.
The construction of 24 conventional car parking sites under the green cover was proposed by MCD in 2007. Work is in progress on 13 sites, but only four will be ready by the time the Commonwealth Games take place.
The idea of building a stack parking facility was also floated in 2007 but was scrapped. Now, MCD has revived the idea. Tenders have been floated for four sites and work has started in Paharganj and Karol Bagh.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Green-panel-whip-on-MCD-Build-parking-lots-by-Aug/articleshow/6000371.cms
The Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA) has put the MCD on notice. It has asked the civic body to provide parking on 3,000-odd commercial and mixed-land-use streets by August.
''If the MCD fails to meet the deadline, EPCA will declare these streets no-parking zones and the civic agency will have to give back the Rs 811 crore that it has collected from traders in the form of conversion, parking and registration charges over the past four years,'' said EPCA member Sunita Narain. EPCA is monitoring the government's parking policy according to Supreme Court guidelines.
The MCD had collected the amount from traders to upgrade infrastructure and, particularly, create parking lots. But not a single parking lot has come up in the past four years.
MCD press and information director Deep Mathur told TOI: ''The money collected as conversion and parking charges is being used for various parking projects. We are also using it for other development projects such as upgradation of roads. There are thousands of traders who are yet to pay the conversion and parking charges and the civic agency is sealing their properties.''
But some officials in the civic agency admitted that a large chunk of the money collected had not been used as the parking projects had been inordinately delayed.
'Secretary of Lajpat Nagar Traders' Association D N Rajpal said: ''Each trader in Lajpat Nagar has paid Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh as conversion and parking charges but we are yet to be provided with a solution to the parking problem. On top of that, the civic agency has told us not to park our cars in front of our shops. We, too, don't want to park our cars in front of our shops but what alternative do we have?''
When asked about the delay, MCD officials said most companies were not willing to invest in parking projects.
''The automated parking projects were conceptualised on a build-operate-transfer basis but companies were not keen as most of the projects involved an investment of Rs 200 crore. In many cases, like the car parking project at Rani Bagh, we had to call tenders thrice before any company showed interest.''
There are 143 surface parking sites in the city which can accommodate 15,000 vehicles. Delhi has over 60 lakh registered vehicles. With parking problems increasing by the day, the civic agency has floated tenders for 120 surface parking projects. It has also lined up several stack parking, automated multi-level parking and conventional parking projects.
The multi-level parking project was conceptualised way back in 2003. An MCD official said: ''Fourteen multi-level parkings will be constructed. While work has started in Kamla Nagar after a delay of three years, tenders have been awarded for five sites. DIMTS has been appointed project management consultant for four sites and three sites are still under consideration.''
The parking lots will come up in Kamla Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Defence Colony, Shastri Park and South Extension Part-I and Part-II. These will provide parking space for 9,428 cars.
MCD had also hired consultants to identify strip parking sites along footpaths on the 3,000-odd commercial and mixed-land-use streets. The consultant has till date submitted reports for Karol Bagh and Paharganj.
The construction of 24 conventional car parking sites under the green cover was proposed by MCD in 2007. Work is in progress on 13 sites, but only four will be ready by the time the Commonwealth Games take place.
The idea of building a stack parking facility was also floated in 2007 but was scrapped. Now, MCD has revived the idea. Tenders have been floated for four sites and work has started in Paharganj and Karol Bagh.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Green-panel-whip-on-MCD-Build-parking-lots-by-Aug/articleshow/6000371.cms
MCD may hike parking charges
Thursday, 3 June, 2010
Delhiites might soon have to shell out more for parking in the city with the MCD proposing to hike parking charges.
According to MCD's leader of the house, Subhash Arya, while a final decision is yet to be taken, the civic agency is looking at the NDMC practice to divide areas into categories based on their location, congestion and other factors to fix the parking rate. Alternatively, it may introduce a uniform hiked rate.
''We will either have a uniform system throughout Delhi, under which we will charge Rs 10 for two hours and then Rs 10 for each additional hour — the system followed by NDMC in CP and other areas — or increase the rate uniformly for MCD parking sites only. Our aim is to ensure that the contractors do not fleece Delhiites,'' said Arya.
MCD had recently submitted an affidivit on its present parking policy in Delhi high court. The court had voiced its concern over the lack of uniformity in parking rates. ''We realised the need to revise our policy after the court hearing,'' said Arya. ''When Delhi government can charge so much as road tax without giving MCD a share in it, the civic agency can also hike the parking charges to augment its dwindling revenues.''
MCD's proposal has been supported by the Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA). The Authority has been advocating a hike in parking rates for long to encourage the use of public transport and decongest Delhi.
''The parking charges should be increased so that private vehicles are discouraged on Delhi roads and congestion is checked. We are looking at implementing a parking policy on these lines very soon. The rates should be high enough to discourage private vehicles, especially in markets and congested areas. Also, under the MPD-2021, colonies have been divided in categories and rates can be fixed according to these categories, depending on population, location etc,'' said Bhure Lal, chairperson, EPCA.
The last revision of parking charges took place in 2007. For cars it's Rs 10 at MCD's 143 surface parking sites up to 10 hours and Rs 20 up to 24 hours. Two-wheelers are charged Rs 5 for 10 hours and Rs 10 for 24 hours.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/MCD-may-hike-parking-charges/articleshow/6000373.cms
Delhiites might soon have to shell out more for parking in the city with the MCD proposing to hike parking charges.
According to MCD's leader of the house, Subhash Arya, while a final decision is yet to be taken, the civic agency is looking at the NDMC practice to divide areas into categories based on their location, congestion and other factors to fix the parking rate. Alternatively, it may introduce a uniform hiked rate.
''We will either have a uniform system throughout Delhi, under which we will charge Rs 10 for two hours and then Rs 10 for each additional hour — the system followed by NDMC in CP and other areas — or increase the rate uniformly for MCD parking sites only. Our aim is to ensure that the contractors do not fleece Delhiites,'' said Arya.
MCD had recently submitted an affidivit on its present parking policy in Delhi high court. The court had voiced its concern over the lack of uniformity in parking rates. ''We realised the need to revise our policy after the court hearing,'' said Arya. ''When Delhi government can charge so much as road tax without giving MCD a share in it, the civic agency can also hike the parking charges to augment its dwindling revenues.''
MCD's proposal has been supported by the Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA). The Authority has been advocating a hike in parking rates for long to encourage the use of public transport and decongest Delhi.
''The parking charges should be increased so that private vehicles are discouraged on Delhi roads and congestion is checked. We are looking at implementing a parking policy on these lines very soon. The rates should be high enough to discourage private vehicles, especially in markets and congested areas. Also, under the MPD-2021, colonies have been divided in categories and rates can be fixed according to these categories, depending on population, location etc,'' said Bhure Lal, chairperson, EPCA.
The last revision of parking charges took place in 2007. For cars it's Rs 10 at MCD's 143 surface parking sites up to 10 hours and Rs 20 up to 24 hours. Two-wheelers are charged Rs 5 for 10 hours and Rs 10 for 24 hours.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/MCD-may-hike-parking-charges/articleshow/6000373.cms
A road safety club for children
Thursday, 3 June, 2010
The Delhi Traffic Police have undertaken the task to mould children as responsible road users and drivers. After the summer vacations, school-going children in Delhi will be offered memberships to a unique 'Road Safety Club'.
The members will be involved in various road safety activities. The idea behind the club is to inculcate a sense of road safety among tomorrow's road users.
Seventeen schools have enrolled in the club till date.
"Road accidents are one of the largest killers in India with 1.25 lakh deaths reported per year — the highest in the world. To bring down rate of accidents, road safety clubs should be formed in each state," said a senior official of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chadha told Hindustan Times, "We had mooted the concept during the first week of January, which was observed as road safety week.
Organisations like Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Automobile Association of Upper India (AAUI) and automobile giants like JK Tyres and Hero Honda have agreed to partner with us."
Lauding the initiative of the Delhi Traffic police, a senior officer of the Indian Chapter of International Road Federation (IRF) said, "We are trying to install simulators, imported from Europe, in schools across the country so that students can get proper training."
A spokesperson from SIAM said, "We will impart training to nominated school teachers, school bus drivers and guardians of students."
Sanjay Jain, transport in-charge, Srijan School, Model Town said, "The Road Safety Club is a unique move and will help curb road fatalities."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/A-road-safety-club-for-children/Article1-552389.aspx
The Delhi Traffic Police have undertaken the task to mould children as responsible road users and drivers. After the summer vacations, school-going children in Delhi will be offered memberships to a unique 'Road Safety Club'.
The members will be involved in various road safety activities. The idea behind the club is to inculcate a sense of road safety among tomorrow's road users.
Seventeen schools have enrolled in the club till date.
"Road accidents are one of the largest killers in India with 1.25 lakh deaths reported per year — the highest in the world. To bring down rate of accidents, road safety clubs should be formed in each state," said a senior official of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chadha told Hindustan Times, "We had mooted the concept during the first week of January, which was observed as road safety week.
Organisations like Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Automobile Association of Upper India (AAUI) and automobile giants like JK Tyres and Hero Honda have agreed to partner with us."
Lauding the initiative of the Delhi Traffic police, a senior officer of the Indian Chapter of International Road Federation (IRF) said, "We are trying to install simulators, imported from Europe, in schools across the country so that students can get proper training."
A spokesperson from SIAM said, "We will impart training to nominated school teachers, school bus drivers and guardians of students."
Sanjay Jain, transport in-charge, Srijan School, Model Town said, "The Road Safety Club is a unique move and will help curb road fatalities."
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/A-road-safety-club-for-children/Article1-552389.aspx
Agencies play blame game as roads cave in
Thursday, 3 June, 2010
The roads in the city have already started crumbling and rather than fixing the problems, the civic agencies concerned have begun passing the buck. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), which had constructed East Delhi's Geeta Colony road, is claiming that the road caved in due to leakages, which the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) should have checked.
"The road has been laid over a water pipeline and over the past four months leakages started occurring and made the layers of the road weak which finally led to the cave-in," said Deep Mathur, director press and information, MCD.
But why did the civic body not check these leakages, which could have prevented such an incident?
"It is the DJB's job, they have the equipment to check such leakages," added Mathur. The DJB officials refused to comment.
On May 28, more than 40 passengers in the bus had a narrow escape when a low-floor Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus they were travelling in fell into a 10-foot deep crater.
"We had been telling the MCD to keep a check on this road as the surface had become quite soft which was apparent even when one was walking on the roads. But as usual no one bothered to carry out any inspection," said V.K. Arora, a resident of Krishna Nagar in East Delhi.
To ensure that other roads in the city don't meet the same fate during monsoon, the Delhi traffic police have already identified a number of roads that need immediate repairing. "We have already sent a list of roads to various agencies such as MCD, PWD, NDMC to start the repair work immediately. Many of the stretches become weak just after just one shower," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of Police (Traffic).
"We have sent the list to most of the civic bodies to repair these roads before the monsoons. Others we have placed on the list as a preventive measure," Chadha said.
"The lower strata of the road that has to bear the load ultimately has to be properly compacted. If craters are developing on such roads it means that this has been ignored," said S.M. Sarin, former director CRRI.
Last year, the Delhi traffic police had also come out with a list of 104-potholed roads that usually result in traffic jams. Civic agencies had then promised to convert such stretches into concrete roads.
The MCD had earmarked a budget of Rs 75 crore for maintenance of urban roads last year and Rs 50 crore has been earmarked for this year. The PWD too has a budget of Rs 5 crore to be spent on maintenance.
While road agencies are busy laying new roads for the Games, experts said even here, procedures are not being followed.
"We have ultrasonic technology available to check if there have been leakages underneath the road. However, it is not being done, which is why we are encountering such incidents," said Sunil Bose of Central Road Research Institute.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Agencies-play-blame-game-as-roads-cave-in/Article1-552744.aspx
The roads in the city have already started crumbling and rather than fixing the problems, the civic agencies concerned have begun passing the buck. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), which had constructed East Delhi's Geeta Colony road, is claiming that the road caved in due to leakages, which the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) should have checked.
"The road has been laid over a water pipeline and over the past four months leakages started occurring and made the layers of the road weak which finally led to the cave-in," said Deep Mathur, director press and information, MCD.
But why did the civic body not check these leakages, which could have prevented such an incident?
"It is the DJB's job, they have the equipment to check such leakages," added Mathur. The DJB officials refused to comment.
On May 28, more than 40 passengers in the bus had a narrow escape when a low-floor Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) bus they were travelling in fell into a 10-foot deep crater.
"We had been telling the MCD to keep a check on this road as the surface had become quite soft which was apparent even when one was walking on the roads. But as usual no one bothered to carry out any inspection," said V.K. Arora, a resident of Krishna Nagar in East Delhi.
To ensure that other roads in the city don't meet the same fate during monsoon, the Delhi traffic police have already identified a number of roads that need immediate repairing. "We have already sent a list of roads to various agencies such as MCD, PWD, NDMC to start the repair work immediately. Many of the stretches become weak just after just one shower," said Ajay Chadha, special commissioner of Police (Traffic).
"We have sent the list to most of the civic bodies to repair these roads before the monsoons. Others we have placed on the list as a preventive measure," Chadha said.
"The lower strata of the road that has to bear the load ultimately has to be properly compacted. If craters are developing on such roads it means that this has been ignored," said S.M. Sarin, former director CRRI.
Last year, the Delhi traffic police had also come out with a list of 104-potholed roads that usually result in traffic jams. Civic agencies had then promised to convert such stretches into concrete roads.
The MCD had earmarked a budget of Rs 75 crore for maintenance of urban roads last year and Rs 50 crore has been earmarked for this year. The PWD too has a budget of Rs 5 crore to be spent on maintenance.
While road agencies are busy laying new roads for the Games, experts said even here, procedures are not being followed.
"We have ultrasonic technology available to check if there have been leakages underneath the road. However, it is not being done, which is why we are encountering such incidents," said Sunil Bose of Central Road Research Institute.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Agencies-play-blame-game-as-roads-cave-in/Article1-552744.aspx
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