Tuesday, Feb 01, 2011
Coming down heavy on second-hand car dealers and other commercial transport operators who park their vehicles on government land, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has decided to start a special drive to clear the roads. MCD commissioner KS Mehra has directed all zones to impound such vehicles and charge heavy penalty from their owners. The penalty amount on each car is anywhere between Rs 4000 and Rs 9000 per day. Sources say officials in all zones have been asked to start the process of procuring their own cranes.
Areas like Lajpat Nagar, Defence Colony, Karol Bagh, CR Park, GK-1 etc are infested with second-hand car dealers who often park the vehicles they are selling on public land. "It is mess. Whenever we carry out raids, they remove their vehicles. But within days the cars are back. They are parked all over from roads to pavements," said an MCD official. In a recent circular, MCD sources say, Mehra has asked deputy commissioners of all the zones to start a drive against illegally-parked cars.
Officials say that in the Delhi Municipal Council Act, there is a provision to impound such vehicles and impose a heavy penalty. The penalty is charged on the basis of the weight of the vehicle, crane charges etc. "In the past, there was a court order which upheld MCD's decision to charge a penalty of Rs 5000 per day per vehicle from dealers who illegally parked their cars. Apart from that there are other charges as we keep the vehicle in our area and hire cranes to lift it," said an MCD official.
The Central zone has already started taking action against illegally parked vehicles. In a raid last week, officials there impounded 20 cars from both sides of Defence Colony flyover and collected close to Rs 60,000 in fines. "We have to remove all kinds of encroachment. It is mostly second-hand car dealers who park their cars on public places. But we also impounded heavy generator sets from New Friends colony; tempos, water tankers from Tuklaqabad and cars from Lajpat Nagar and Defence colony. The penalty can be anywhere between Rs 4000 and Rs 10,000 per day, and in some cases even more. The amount will keep adding with each passing day," said an MCD official. Similar action has also been carried out in City and Paharganj zones.
"Despite several attempts, we were not able to keep public spaces encroachment free. But now, all zones are making concentrated effort to implement commissioner's order," said an official.
After reining in second-hand car dealers, MCD is mulling a similar action against unauthorized parking lots. Recently, the MCD decided to charge 10 times of the parking fee from contractor for each car that was parked illegally. "Currently, we charge 10 times the parking fee from the contractor. But we are thinking that on contractors too we should impose fines similar to the ones slapped on second-hand car dealers."
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Action-against-illegal-car-parking/articleshow/7400411.cms
Monday, January 31, 2011
MCD gets traffic police green light for 25 new parking lots
Tuesday, Feb 01, 2011
Delhi police's traffic wing has given a go-ahead to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to set up parking lots at 25 more sites.MCD has received 'no objection certificates' for 25 new parking sites and tenders for the facilities would be floated soon, said Yogender Chandolia, chairman of MCD's standing committee.The civic body has already received NOC for 35 sites earlier and tenders have been floated for them."It was after the Lt Governor's intervention last week that we received the traffic police's NOC for these sites," Chandolia said.Before providing NOCs to a site, the traffic police personnel do conduct on-site surveys to make sure vehicular movement is not obstructed in the area.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/mcd-gets-traffic-police-green-light-for-25-new-parking-lots/559781.html
Delhi police's traffic wing has given a go-ahead to the Municipal Corporation of Delhi to set up parking lots at 25 more sites.MCD has received 'no objection certificates' for 25 new parking sites and tenders for the facilities would be floated soon, said Yogender Chandolia, chairman of MCD's standing committee.The civic body has already received NOC for 35 sites earlier and tenders have been floated for them."It was after the Lt Governor's intervention last week that we received the traffic police's NOC for these sites," Chandolia said.Before providing NOCs to a site, the traffic police personnel do conduct on-site surveys to make sure vehicular movement is not obstructed in the area.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/generalnewsfeed/news/mcd-gets-traffic-police-green-light-for-25-new-parking-lots/559781.html
Bus depot on riverbed without DDA permission
Monday, Jan 31, 2011
The contentious Millennium Depot of the Delhi Transport Corporation on the Yamuna riverbed has come up without permission from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the land-owning agency. In an RTI reply last week, the DDA's planning department said that "no permission for construction of depot at this location has been given."
"We had given permission for temporary parking for some 600 buses during the Common-wealth Games," said a senior DDA official on condition of anonymity.
The DTC has requested the DDA to change the land-use to make the depot permanent. The site was earmarked for the dumping of fly ash. The controversy over the bus depot started after the Common-wealth Games with the Delhi government's reluctance to shift out of riverbed, where permanent construction is not allowed. The matter reached the high court recently.
Meanwhile, no department of the Delhi government wants to share the blame for the depot.
Even the DTC itself, in an RTI reply, put the responsibility of building the depot on the public works department. When the RTI query asked whether the Millennium Depot was a permanent or a temporary structure, the DTC said, "The depot has been constructed by the PWD; the information can be had from the Chief Engineer's office of the PWD."
The Prime Minister's office (PMO) recently referred a protest petition on the issue from environmentalists to chief secretary's office in Delhi. The chief secretary in turn referred it to the environment department, which then referred the matter to the Delhi Development Authority saying the issue pertained to riverbed, which was under the DDA's jurisdiction.
In 2009, the office of the Delhi Lieutenant-Governor as gave Delhi government the permission for temporary parking of buses on the Ash Pond area for the Games.
Although no permanent structure was supposed to have come up there, the Delhi government went ahead and spent Rs 60 crore to develop the 61-acre area. In the petition to the PM, environmental groups called this an "open loot" of Delhi's natural asset, the floodplains.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Bus-depot-on-riverbed-without-DDA-permission/Article1-656624.aspx
The contentious Millennium Depot of the Delhi Transport Corporation on the Yamuna riverbed has come up without permission from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), the land-owning agency. In an RTI reply last week, the DDA's planning department said that "no permission for construction of depot at this location has been given."
"We had given permission for temporary parking for some 600 buses during the Common-wealth Games," said a senior DDA official on condition of anonymity.
The DTC has requested the DDA to change the land-use to make the depot permanent. The site was earmarked for the dumping of fly ash. The controversy over the bus depot started after the Common-wealth Games with the Delhi government's reluctance to shift out of riverbed, where permanent construction is not allowed. The matter reached the high court recently.
Meanwhile, no department of the Delhi government wants to share the blame for the depot.
Even the DTC itself, in an RTI reply, put the responsibility of building the depot on the public works department. When the RTI query asked whether the Millennium Depot was a permanent or a temporary structure, the DTC said, "The depot has been constructed by the PWD; the information can be had from the Chief Engineer's office of the PWD."
The Prime Minister's office (PMO) recently referred a protest petition on the issue from environmentalists to chief secretary's office in Delhi. The chief secretary in turn referred it to the environment department, which then referred the matter to the Delhi Development Authority saying the issue pertained to riverbed, which was under the DDA's jurisdiction.
In 2009, the office of the Delhi Lieutenant-Governor as gave Delhi government the permission for temporary parking of buses on the Ash Pond area for the Games.
Although no permanent structure was supposed to have come up there, the Delhi government went ahead and spent Rs 60 crore to develop the 61-acre area. In the petition to the PM, environmental groups called this an "open loot" of Delhi's natural asset, the floodplains.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Bus-depot-on-riverbed-without-DDA-permission/Article1-656624.aspx
Markers of road safety now bent and broken
Sunday, Jan 30, 2011
Dull and worn out bollards (plastic dividers), broken or bent by reckless drivers, are a common sight on the road. In a city that is infamous for its drivers who are unmindful of traffic rules, the civic neglect of these bollards — key for lane driving and traffic regulation — mirrors the devil-may-care attitude towards lane discipline and its importance.
Commuters complain that most bollards are not visible from a distance as the reflective surface has either worn off or become dull due to pollution and dust. These are now just ugly stumps on the road, which are neither removed nor replaced by agencies concerned for months, say commuters. Nakashi Choudhury, a commuter, said, "Bollards are a good idea but people rarely follow lane discipline. They go zig-zag and suddenly swerve to a different lane. As a result, the car behind is many times forced to enter the wrong lane. Every day I see drivers going over the traffic bollards."
Joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg said, "Drivers need to be more civic-conscious and should not need to be watched in order to follow simple rules. We try asking for a replacement of these damaged bollards at the earliest as these are essential for lane discipline and traffic management. We count these damaged bollards as operational losses. We usually ask for a replacement from the government agency responsible for the particular road."
Senior traffic officials claimed that unless the matter is pursued vigorously, these bollards are not replaced for a long time. Lack of signages to indicate lane segregation is another cause for confusion among commuters. A senior traffic officer admitted, "The quality of bollards is sometimes not very good, as they fast lose their reflective surface and are not visible from a distance. We can definitely look into this and come up with a better alternative. People also need to be more responsible. They take short cuts and even if we insist on putting signages, they do not want to follow lane discipline. There are very few law-abiding citizens."
In Delhi, usually slim fluorescent orange plastic bollards are used to segregate traffic at traffic signals for safe delineation system useful for motorways and busy arterial roads. These bollards, being malleable, can give way on minimum impact, bouncing back in case a vehicle runs over them. However, due to frequent wear and tear, most of these break and hardly serve as a deterrent for drivers. On stretches such as Mathura Road, Subramaniam Bharti Road and BRT corridor, broken bollards are a common sight.
But according to traffic cops, using concrete or steel bollards is a bad idea. "Using concrete bollards on road will only cause more accidents and damage. There could be any reason for overshooting a lane. If a vehicle rams into a concrete bollard, it can lead to a pile-up. Lane driving is desirable, but risking people's lives is not a solution," said a senior traffic officer.
Both temporary and permanent bollards serve several functions — such as channeling traffic, diversions, closures and semiclosures — to improve the safety and flow of traffic. Flexible bollards can also be used to create AM/PM contra-flow lanes on bridges and separate lanes to prevent dangerous manoeuvres.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Markers-of-road-safety-now-bent-and-broken/articleshow/7388587.cms
Dull and worn out bollards (plastic dividers), broken or bent by reckless drivers, are a common sight on the road. In a city that is infamous for its drivers who are unmindful of traffic rules, the civic neglect of these bollards — key for lane driving and traffic regulation — mirrors the devil-may-care attitude towards lane discipline and its importance.
Commuters complain that most bollards are not visible from a distance as the reflective surface has either worn off or become dull due to pollution and dust. These are now just ugly stumps on the road, which are neither removed nor replaced by agencies concerned for months, say commuters. Nakashi Choudhury, a commuter, said, "Bollards are a good idea but people rarely follow lane discipline. They go zig-zag and suddenly swerve to a different lane. As a result, the car behind is many times forced to enter the wrong lane. Every day I see drivers going over the traffic bollards."
Joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg said, "Drivers need to be more civic-conscious and should not need to be watched in order to follow simple rules. We try asking for a replacement of these damaged bollards at the earliest as these are essential for lane discipline and traffic management. We count these damaged bollards as operational losses. We usually ask for a replacement from the government agency responsible for the particular road."
Senior traffic officials claimed that unless the matter is pursued vigorously, these bollards are not replaced for a long time. Lack of signages to indicate lane segregation is another cause for confusion among commuters. A senior traffic officer admitted, "The quality of bollards is sometimes not very good, as they fast lose their reflective surface and are not visible from a distance. We can definitely look into this and come up with a better alternative. People also need to be more responsible. They take short cuts and even if we insist on putting signages, they do not want to follow lane discipline. There are very few law-abiding citizens."
In Delhi, usually slim fluorescent orange plastic bollards are used to segregate traffic at traffic signals for safe delineation system useful for motorways and busy arterial roads. These bollards, being malleable, can give way on minimum impact, bouncing back in case a vehicle runs over them. However, due to frequent wear and tear, most of these break and hardly serve as a deterrent for drivers. On stretches such as Mathura Road, Subramaniam Bharti Road and BRT corridor, broken bollards are a common sight.
But according to traffic cops, using concrete or steel bollards is a bad idea. "Using concrete bollards on road will only cause more accidents and damage. There could be any reason for overshooting a lane. If a vehicle rams into a concrete bollard, it can lead to a pile-up. Lane driving is desirable, but risking people's lives is not a solution," said a senior traffic officer.
Both temporary and permanent bollards serve several functions — such as channeling traffic, diversions, closures and semiclosures — to improve the safety and flow of traffic. Flexible bollards can also be used to create AM/PM contra-flow lanes on bridges and separate lanes to prevent dangerous manoeuvres.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Markers-of-road-safety-now-bent-and-broken/articleshow/7388587.cms
Phase-out on schedule; Blueline buses off roads from Feb 1
Sunday, Jan 30, 2011
With the final deadline to completely phase out Bluelines expiring Monday, the 'killer' fleet, which had gained notoriety for involvement in frequent mishaps, will be off the roads from February one.
As part of efforts to streamline the public transport system in the city, the Delhi government had shunted out 823 Blueline buses on December 14 and removed 389 more on December 31 out of a total of 2,052 such vehicles.
Transport Minister Arvinder Singh Lovely had earlier said January 31 will be the "last day" for the remaining 840 Blueline buses in the city. He had said the state-run Delhi Transport Corporation will able to meet the transportation needs of the people.
Officials said the "complete phase-out" of the fleet is "on schedule" and notices have been issued to Blueline operators to surrender their permits by tomorrow.
The Delhi High Court had on January 20 reserved its order on the city government's plea not to permit the Blueline buses to come back on roads. The bus operators had moved the court seeking to run their buses on the roads till the government implements the new cluster bus system.
The court has turned down operators' plea for extension of permits of one-third of the 2,000 Bluelines which lapsed. Justifying its decision to phase out Blueline buses, the government had told the court that the private buses are six times more accident-prone than DTC buses.
A Delhi government official said any Blueline bus plying on roads after January 31 will be impounded as permits have been suspended. Asked about some Bluelines running on roads after painting the vehicles white, he said a drive will be launched and all buses running without permit will be seized.
Asked about the challenge before the DTC, an official from the transport agency said it is capable of handling the passenger traffic of the city. "We now have a fleet of 6,200, including 3575 low-floor buses. We are confident of being able to handle the situation. There will be no problem. At any given day, at least 5,000 DTC buses are there on the roads," the official said.
The Delhi government has been trying to modernise the entire public transport system in the city and has procured hundreds of swanky low-floor buses, including air-conditioned and non-air conditioned vehicles.
The government had last year announced an ambitious cluster bus service scheme under which corporate entities were proposed to be given certain routes in the city on the pattern of cities like Paris and London. The first cluster bus service is expected to begin its operation in February.
Delhi government had in 2009 divided nearly 650 bus routes across the city into 17 clusters, each comprising profitable and non-profitable routes and decided to give each cluster to a private operator.
Original news source http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/phase-out-on-schedule-blueline-buses-off-roads-from-feb-1/articleshow/7389232.cms
With the final deadline to completely phase out Bluelines expiring Monday, the 'killer' fleet, which had gained notoriety for involvement in frequent mishaps, will be off the roads from February one.
As part of efforts to streamline the public transport system in the city, the Delhi government had shunted out 823 Blueline buses on December 14 and removed 389 more on December 31 out of a total of 2,052 such vehicles.
Transport Minister Arvinder Singh Lovely had earlier said January 31 will be the "last day" for the remaining 840 Blueline buses in the city. He had said the state-run Delhi Transport Corporation will able to meet the transportation needs of the people.
Officials said the "complete phase-out" of the fleet is "on schedule" and notices have been issued to Blueline operators to surrender their permits by tomorrow.
The Delhi High Court had on January 20 reserved its order on the city government's plea not to permit the Blueline buses to come back on roads. The bus operators had moved the court seeking to run their buses on the roads till the government implements the new cluster bus system.
The court has turned down operators' plea for extension of permits of one-third of the 2,000 Bluelines which lapsed. Justifying its decision to phase out Blueline buses, the government had told the court that the private buses are six times more accident-prone than DTC buses.
A Delhi government official said any Blueline bus plying on roads after January 31 will be impounded as permits have been suspended. Asked about some Bluelines running on roads after painting the vehicles white, he said a drive will be launched and all buses running without permit will be seized.
Asked about the challenge before the DTC, an official from the transport agency said it is capable of handling the passenger traffic of the city. "We now have a fleet of 6,200, including 3575 low-floor buses. We are confident of being able to handle the situation. There will be no problem. At any given day, at least 5,000 DTC buses are there on the roads," the official said.
The Delhi government has been trying to modernise the entire public transport system in the city and has procured hundreds of swanky low-floor buses, including air-conditioned and non-air conditioned vehicles.
The government had last year announced an ambitious cluster bus service scheme under which corporate entities were proposed to be given certain routes in the city on the pattern of cities like Paris and London. The first cluster bus service is expected to begin its operation in February.
Delhi government had in 2009 divided nearly 650 bus routes across the city into 17 clusters, each comprising profitable and non-profitable routes and decided to give each cluster to a private operator.
Original news source http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/et-cetera/phase-out-on-schedule-blueline-buses-off-roads-from-feb-1/articleshow/7389232.cms
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Soon, helmets must for women bikers, pillion riders
Saturday, Jan 29, 2011
Women riding two-wheelers and even those on pillion may soon have to wear helmets. The Delhi government has asked the traffic police to reverse an earlier order exempting women from wearing helmets while riding bikes. The government, at a meeting on January 12, decided to enforce the helmet law more stringently for bikers and pillion riders, irrespective of their gender.
"We have asked the traffic department to make it mandatory for women driving two-wheelers and also those riding pillion to wear helmets," Delhi chief secretary Rakesh Mehta said on Friday.
The government will now have to bring in a legislation to lift the exemption.
In 1999, the government had made it mandatory for both men and women on two-wheelers to wear helmets. The implementation of that rule sparked protests by the Sikh community.
They argued that Sikh men were not allowed to wear anything over their turbans while Sikh women had to keep their heads covered, so helmets did not go with their religious beliefs.
Keeping their sentiments in mind, the government amended the law to exclude all women and Sikh men from the rule.
The Delhi Traffic Police have welcomed the latest move.
"Last year, 700 people died in Delhi in motorbike accidents. Most of them were not wearing helmets," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Soon-helmets-must-for-women-bikers-pillion-riders/Article1-655926.aspx
Women riding two-wheelers and even those on pillion may soon have to wear helmets. The Delhi government has asked the traffic police to reverse an earlier order exempting women from wearing helmets while riding bikes. The government, at a meeting on January 12, decided to enforce the helmet law more stringently for bikers and pillion riders, irrespective of their gender.
"We have asked the traffic department to make it mandatory for women driving two-wheelers and also those riding pillion to wear helmets," Delhi chief secretary Rakesh Mehta said on Friday.
The government will now have to bring in a legislation to lift the exemption.
In 1999, the government had made it mandatory for both men and women on two-wheelers to wear helmets. The implementation of that rule sparked protests by the Sikh community.
They argued that Sikh men were not allowed to wear anything over their turbans while Sikh women had to keep their heads covered, so helmets did not go with their religious beliefs.
Keeping their sentiments in mind, the government amended the law to exclude all women and Sikh men from the rule.
The Delhi Traffic Police have welcomed the latest move.
"Last year, 700 people died in Delhi in motorbike accidents. Most of them were not wearing helmets," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Soon-helmets-must-for-women-bikers-pillion-riders/Article1-655926.aspx
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Parking violations: MCD cracks the whip on erring contractors
Wednesday, Jan 26, 2011
Tired of complaints, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has decided to crack down on parking contractors for flouting norms. The MCD has decided to fine the parking contractors in the city for each car parked improperly in the area allotted to them. "For each car parked outside the yellow
line at parking lots, a contractor will have to pay R100 as fine. We are taking these measures to ensure that they do not park haphazardly," said Yoginder Chandolia, chairman standing committee.
The civic agency has decided to start the process of fining parking attendants from Friday.
"Our teams will visit parking lots at random and fine erring contractors. We have notified the contractors about it so that they can clean up their act," said a senior MCD official.
MCD officials say, most contractors cram as many vehicles as possible in their lots, causing traffic jams and other problems. "We have received complaints from the traffic police that there have been major traffic jams due to haphazard parking of cars. So, we have taken this step," added the officer.
Many arterial roads often get clogged due to haphazard parking. The MCD recently got a No Objection Certificate from the traffic police for running 60 more sites in the city. At present, the civic agency has only 116 parking lots in the city. With the new addition, the number has gone up to 176.
Recently, the civic agency conducted random checks of various parking lots and found that many contractors have encroached upon land to increase the size of their parking lots.
"Our checks will ensure that parking contractors do not indulge in any kind of illegal activities," he added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Parking-violations-MCD-cracks-the-whip-on-erring-contractors/Article1-654722.aspx
Tired of complaints, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has decided to crack down on parking contractors for flouting norms. The MCD has decided to fine the parking contractors in the city for each car parked improperly in the area allotted to them. "For each car parked outside the yellow
line at parking lots, a contractor will have to pay R100 as fine. We are taking these measures to ensure that they do not park haphazardly," said Yoginder Chandolia, chairman standing committee.
The civic agency has decided to start the process of fining parking attendants from Friday.
"Our teams will visit parking lots at random and fine erring contractors. We have notified the contractors about it so that they can clean up their act," said a senior MCD official.
MCD officials say, most contractors cram as many vehicles as possible in their lots, causing traffic jams and other problems. "We have received complaints from the traffic police that there have been major traffic jams due to haphazard parking of cars. So, we have taken this step," added the officer.
Many arterial roads often get clogged due to haphazard parking. The MCD recently got a No Objection Certificate from the traffic police for running 60 more sites in the city. At present, the civic agency has only 116 parking lots in the city. With the new addition, the number has gone up to 176.
Recently, the civic agency conducted random checks of various parking lots and found that many contractors have encroached upon land to increase the size of their parking lots.
"Our checks will ensure that parking contractors do not indulge in any kind of illegal activities," he added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Parking-violations-MCD-cracks-the-whip-on-erring-contractors/Article1-654722.aspx
Monday, January 24, 2011
New cars to cost more as MCD plans parking fee hike
Tuesday, Jan 25, 2011
Buying a car in the city is likely to get more expensive. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) plans to double the night parking fee which a buyer has to pay while registering his vehicle.
Those planning to buy cars priced between Rs4 lakh and Rs10 lakh will have to shell out Rs12,000 as night parking charge against the prevailing Rs4,000. For luxury cars, costing more than Rs10 lakh, buyers will have to pay Rs 20,000.
The civic body says it is planning this rise to replenish its depleting coffers. The exponential increase in construction costs is another reason. "There has been tremendous increase in the cost of building material and other expenses. We require more money to ensure that the construction of parking lots is completed on time,`` a senior municipal corporation official said.
The proposal will be placed before the civic body's standing committee on Tuesday. For using MCD roads and parking spaces, Delhiites have to pay a one-time night parking charge to the municipal corporation while registering the vehicle. "People often park vehicles outside their homes or on roads and other public places which belongs to MCD. They have to pay for using MCD land for parking," the official said.
With close to four lakh new cars added every year to Delhi's vehicle load, the proposed increase is likely to become a good source of revenue for the civic agency. Till now, luxury cars did not have to pay these charges. But now MCD plans to levy a charge of Rs 20,000 on all cars priced above Rs 10 lakh.
Similarly, the civic body has almost doubled the annual fees on commercial vehicles. Private buses, tempos and trucks will now have to pay between Rs4,000 and Rs8,000. Keeping in mind the growing number of private and radio taxis with all-India permit, MCD plans to charge Rs 10,000 annually as night parking charges.
Justifying the proposed hike, MCD officials said, for building a manual multi-level parking for one car, the government spends approximately Rs 4 lakh and for an automated multi-level parking the payout is approximately Rs 9 lakh. "This means for every new car in Delhi, the government incurs an expenditure of Rs 4 lakh for a manual parking. With limited parking space available we have no option but to build multi-level parking and with the sharp rise in construction cost, we need more money," said a senior MCD official.
Unfortunately, the parking scenario in the city hasn't improved much in the last few years. MCD has plans for several parking projects, which includes 21 conventional multi-level, 15 automated multi-level and 4 stack parking lots, to create room for close to 8,000 cars. But none of these projects are nearing completion. In fact, most of them, sanctioned in the last two-three years, are in the initial stages.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/New-cars-to-cost-more-as-MCD-plans-parking-fee-hike/articleshow/7357056.cms#ixzz1C1bIOWlX
Buying a car in the city is likely to get more expensive. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) plans to double the night parking fee which a buyer has to pay while registering his vehicle.
Those planning to buy cars priced between Rs4 lakh and Rs10 lakh will have to shell out Rs12,000 as night parking charge against the prevailing Rs4,000. For luxury cars, costing more than Rs10 lakh, buyers will have to pay Rs 20,000.
The civic body says it is planning this rise to replenish its depleting coffers. The exponential increase in construction costs is another reason. "There has been tremendous increase in the cost of building material and other expenses. We require more money to ensure that the construction of parking lots is completed on time,`` a senior municipal corporation official said.
The proposal will be placed before the civic body's standing committee on Tuesday. For using MCD roads and parking spaces, Delhiites have to pay a one-time night parking charge to the municipal corporation while registering the vehicle. "People often park vehicles outside their homes or on roads and other public places which belongs to MCD. They have to pay for using MCD land for parking," the official said.
With close to four lakh new cars added every year to Delhi's vehicle load, the proposed increase is likely to become a good source of revenue for the civic agency. Till now, luxury cars did not have to pay these charges. But now MCD plans to levy a charge of Rs 20,000 on all cars priced above Rs 10 lakh.
Similarly, the civic body has almost doubled the annual fees on commercial vehicles. Private buses, tempos and trucks will now have to pay between Rs4,000 and Rs8,000. Keeping in mind the growing number of private and radio taxis with all-India permit, MCD plans to charge Rs 10,000 annually as night parking charges.
Justifying the proposed hike, MCD officials said, for building a manual multi-level parking for one car, the government spends approximately Rs 4 lakh and for an automated multi-level parking the payout is approximately Rs 9 lakh. "This means for every new car in Delhi, the government incurs an expenditure of Rs 4 lakh for a manual parking. With limited parking space available we have no option but to build multi-level parking and with the sharp rise in construction cost, we need more money," said a senior MCD official.
Unfortunately, the parking scenario in the city hasn't improved much in the last few years. MCD has plans for several parking projects, which includes 21 conventional multi-level, 15 automated multi-level and 4 stack parking lots, to create room for close to 8,000 cars. But none of these projects are nearing completion. In fact, most of them, sanctioned in the last two-three years, are in the initial stages.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/New-cars-to-cost-more-as-MCD-plans-parking-fee-hike/articleshow/7357056.cms#ixzz1C1bIOWlX
Traffic advisory for Shia procession
Tuesday, Jan 25, 2011
Traffic is likely to be affected in some parts of central and south Delhi on Tuesday due to a Tazia procession on the occasion of Chehallum by the Shia Muslim community. On this occasion, a Tazia procession will be taken out from Imambara, Pahari Bhojla to Karbala, Jorbagh. The procession is supposed to start at around 9am and reach Karbala in the evening, said officials.
Joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg said, "There is likelihood of congestion on the route of the procession. General public are advised to plan their journey in advance and avoid the above-mentioned routes. The latest information regarding the traffic situation on the route of the procession can also be obtained from the 24-hour traffic helpline no. 23010101. Motorists are requested to follow the directions of the traffic policemen deployed on the route of procession."
The procession is to go via Pahari Bhojla towards Jama Masjid, Chawri Bazar and Ajmeri Gate. The procession will cross Deshbandhu Gupta Road, R K Ashram Marg, GPO - ultimately to reach Masjid at Red Cross Road, said traffic cops. It is then expected to travel back via Sansad Marg, RML, Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti roundabout, Krishna Menon Marg, Tughlaq Road and Aurbindo Marg to reach Karbla.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Traffic-advisory-for-Shia-procession/articleshow/7356352.cms#ixzz1C1ZOQJgP
Traffic is likely to be affected in some parts of central and south Delhi on Tuesday due to a Tazia procession on the occasion of Chehallum by the Shia Muslim community. On this occasion, a Tazia procession will be taken out from Imambara, Pahari Bhojla to Karbala, Jorbagh. The procession is supposed to start at around 9am and reach Karbala in the evening, said officials.
Joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg said, "There is likelihood of congestion on the route of the procession. General public are advised to plan their journey in advance and avoid the above-mentioned routes. The latest information regarding the traffic situation on the route of the procession can also be obtained from the 24-hour traffic helpline no. 23010101. Motorists are requested to follow the directions of the traffic policemen deployed on the route of procession."
The procession is to go via Pahari Bhojla towards Jama Masjid, Chawri Bazar and Ajmeri Gate. The procession will cross Deshbandhu Gupta Road, R K Ashram Marg, GPO - ultimately to reach Masjid at Red Cross Road, said traffic cops. It is then expected to travel back via Sansad Marg, RML, Mother Teresa Crescent, Teen Murti roundabout, Krishna Menon Marg, Tughlaq Road and Aurbindo Marg to reach Karbla.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Traffic-advisory-for-Shia-procession/articleshow/7356352.cms#ixzz1C1ZOQJgP
Metro services to be partially affected on January 26, 29
Monday, Jan 24, 2011
Delhi Metro services on three lines will be partially curtailed on Republic Day and Saturday when the Beating Retreating Ceremony will be held in view of strict security measures.
The lines which will be affected due to restrictions imposed by Delhi Traffic Police are - Line 2 (HUDA City Centre Jahangirpuri), Line 3 (Dwarka Sector 21-Noida City Centre/Anand Vihar)and Line 6 (Central Secretariat-Badarpur).
On Wednesday, there will be no Metro service available at Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan and Race Course and Patel Chowk Metro stations of Line 2 and Mandi House, Barakhamba Road and Pragati Maidan Metro stations on Line 3 till 12.30 PM. Khan Market station of Line 6 will also be closed during the period.
However, passengers can use interchange facility at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat stations, DMRC spokesman Anuj Dayal said.
He said short loop services will be run between NOIDA City Centre to Indraprastha, Anand Vihar ISBT to Yamuna Bank and Dwarka Sector 21 to Rajiv Chowk.
On Saturday, Metro services on Line 2 and Line 6 will be curtailed from 3.30 PM to 6.30 PM.
"On Line 2, the Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan stations will remain closed during this period. However, interchange of passengers from Line 2 to Line 6 and vice-versa will be allowed," Dayal said.
In addition, all Metro parking lots will remain closed from 2.00 PM on January 25 to 1.00 PM on January 26. This step has also been taken as part of the security arrangements, he said.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/metro-services-to-be-partially-affected-on-january-26-29-81344
Delhi Metro services on three lines will be partially curtailed on Republic Day and Saturday when the Beating Retreating Ceremony will be held in view of strict security measures.
The lines which will be affected due to restrictions imposed by Delhi Traffic Police are - Line 2 (HUDA City Centre Jahangirpuri), Line 3 (Dwarka Sector 21-Noida City Centre/Anand Vihar)and Line 6 (Central Secretariat-Badarpur).
On Wednesday, there will be no Metro service available at Rajiv Chowk, Central Secretariat, Udyog Bhawan and Race Course and Patel Chowk Metro stations of Line 2 and Mandi House, Barakhamba Road and Pragati Maidan Metro stations on Line 3 till 12.30 PM. Khan Market station of Line 6 will also be closed during the period.
However, passengers can use interchange facility at Rajiv Chowk and Central Secretariat stations, DMRC spokesman Anuj Dayal said.
He said short loop services will be run between NOIDA City Centre to Indraprastha, Anand Vihar ISBT to Yamuna Bank and Dwarka Sector 21 to Rajiv Chowk.
On Saturday, Metro services on Line 2 and Line 6 will be curtailed from 3.30 PM to 6.30 PM.
"On Line 2, the Central Secretariat and Udyog Bhawan stations will remain closed during this period. However, interchange of passengers from Line 2 to Line 6 and vice-versa will be allowed," Dayal said.
In addition, all Metro parking lots will remain closed from 2.00 PM on January 25 to 1.00 PM on January 26. This step has also been taken as part of the security arrangements, he said.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/metro-services-to-be-partially-affected-on-january-26-29-81344
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Work on rail overbridge to affect traffic
Sunday, Jan 23, 2011
The traffic police has warned commuters of possible traffic disruptions due to the work on widening of the rail overbridge and a portion of Road No. 37 from Prem Bari Pul to Keshav Puram. "Some traffic diversions and changes are planned. The traffic coming from Prem Bari Pul and heading towards Tri Nagar and Keshav Puram will be diverted for around two Months from January 24," said joint CP (traffic) Satyendra Garg.
Commuters planning to go from Prem Wari Pul towards Tri Nagar and Keshav Puram are advised either to use Lawrence Road under pass near Britannia Chowk. They can also take the road between Wazir Pur Industrial area via Ashok Vihar T-point and then proceed to Deep Market Road and Gulab Singh Road. "Appropriate traffic signages will be placed to guide motorists. Also, dequate traffic staff has been deployed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted flow of traffic,'' said Garg.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Work-on-rail-overbridge-to-affect-traffic/articleshow/7343326.cms#ixzz1BviWBE2U
The traffic police has warned commuters of possible traffic disruptions due to the work on widening of the rail overbridge and a portion of Road No. 37 from Prem Bari Pul to Keshav Puram. "Some traffic diversions and changes are planned. The traffic coming from Prem Bari Pul and heading towards Tri Nagar and Keshav Puram will be diverted for around two Months from January 24," said joint CP (traffic) Satyendra Garg.
Commuters planning to go from Prem Wari Pul towards Tri Nagar and Keshav Puram are advised either to use Lawrence Road under pass near Britannia Chowk. They can also take the road between Wazir Pur Industrial area via Ashok Vihar T-point and then proceed to Deep Market Road and Gulab Singh Road. "Appropriate traffic signages will be placed to guide motorists. Also, dequate traffic staff has been deployed to ensure smooth and uninterrupted flow of traffic,'' said Garg.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Work-on-rail-overbridge-to-affect-traffic/articleshow/7343326.cms#ixzz1BviWBE2U
Delhi Govt is planning a monorail corridor connecting Kondli to Rohini Sector 21
Saturday, Jan 22, 2011
with Mumbai about to get W its first monorail, the focus is back on the pilot monorail line project connecting Kondli to Rohini Sector 21. The Delhi Government is considering carrying a detailed project report on the monorail corridor (Kondli to Rohini via Delhi Gate), identified by RITES in its latest study on problems related to Delhi traffic.
The biggest advantage of monorail is that it can be constructed on roads with Right of Way (ROW) as little as 18 metres and a turning radius of 50-70 metres, making it ideal for congested city roads. Hitachi Monorail System on Friday made a presentation before Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta and Secretary (Transport) Rajni Kant Verma and other experts including DMRC.
Sources in the transport department said that if the Government agrees, operating cost deficiency will be borne by the Government to reduce financial burden on the company. "It is also clear that such project would not be completed without the participation of the private players," the sources said.
The proposal was earlier put in cold storage after DMRC and promoters of the controversial Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor opposed the mono rail project saying its carrying capacity is lesser than Metro and it's a costly affair as compared to BRT.
After the presentation, both DMRC and BRT promoter Geetam Tiwari opposed the project. Interestingly, one section of the Delhi Government favours the monorail project while the other section opposes it citing Metro and BRT as better options.
Talking to The Pioneer, Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said that Delhi Metro and Geetam Tiwari have opposed the proposal.
Mehta said that Hitachi had informed them that they are providing monorail corridors in Kita-Kyushu, Osaka, Tama and Okinawa. Beside this, they also discussed the funding pattern and assured that funding would not be a problem for the project.
The Delhi Government is planning a monorail corridor connecting Kondli to Rohini Sector 21 via Delhi Gate covering 40.3 km in the Capital. The project is based on the RITES report 2010 pertaining to Delhi traffic mess and its solution.
Earlier, Delhi was supposed to get three monorail lines which would have served as effective feeders to main transport modes like Metro and buses. The monorail links were planned for congested areas in Walled City, east and north Delhi with lines between Delhi University and Pul Bangash (via Shakti Nagar, Anand Parbat, Ajmeri Gate, Delhi Gate, Red Fort, SPM Marg), Daryaganj and Kondli (via Yamuna river crossing, Geeta Colony, Scope Tower, Vikas Marg, Patparganj, Kondli Road) and Budh Vihar to Shakti Nagar.
The networks will stretch over 41.5 km in total.
Transport department's Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) DIMTS (Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit Limited) was entrusted with the task of carrying out a feasibility study of the proposed corridors.
Original news source http://epaper.dailypioneer.com/ThePioneer/Pioneer/2011/01/22/ArticleHtmls/22_01_2011_003_016.shtml
with Mumbai about to get W its first monorail, the focus is back on the pilot monorail line project connecting Kondli to Rohini Sector 21. The Delhi Government is considering carrying a detailed project report on the monorail corridor (Kondli to Rohini via Delhi Gate), identified by RITES in its latest study on problems related to Delhi traffic.
The biggest advantage of monorail is that it can be constructed on roads with Right of Way (ROW) as little as 18 metres and a turning radius of 50-70 metres, making it ideal for congested city roads. Hitachi Monorail System on Friday made a presentation before Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta and Secretary (Transport) Rajni Kant Verma and other experts including DMRC.
Sources in the transport department said that if the Government agrees, operating cost deficiency will be borne by the Government to reduce financial burden on the company. "It is also clear that such project would not be completed without the participation of the private players," the sources said.
The proposal was earlier put in cold storage after DMRC and promoters of the controversial Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor opposed the mono rail project saying its carrying capacity is lesser than Metro and it's a costly affair as compared to BRT.
After the presentation, both DMRC and BRT promoter Geetam Tiwari opposed the project. Interestingly, one section of the Delhi Government favours the monorail project while the other section opposes it citing Metro and BRT as better options.
Talking to The Pioneer, Chief Secretary Rakesh Mehta said that Delhi Metro and Geetam Tiwari have opposed the proposal.
Mehta said that Hitachi had informed them that they are providing monorail corridors in Kita-Kyushu, Osaka, Tama and Okinawa. Beside this, they also discussed the funding pattern and assured that funding would not be a problem for the project.
The Delhi Government is planning a monorail corridor connecting Kondli to Rohini Sector 21 via Delhi Gate covering 40.3 km in the Capital. The project is based on the RITES report 2010 pertaining to Delhi traffic mess and its solution.
Earlier, Delhi was supposed to get three monorail lines which would have served as effective feeders to main transport modes like Metro and buses. The monorail links were planned for congested areas in Walled City, east and north Delhi with lines between Delhi University and Pul Bangash (via Shakti Nagar, Anand Parbat, Ajmeri Gate, Delhi Gate, Red Fort, SPM Marg), Daryaganj and Kondli (via Yamuna river crossing, Geeta Colony, Scope Tower, Vikas Marg, Patparganj, Kondli Road) and Budh Vihar to Shakti Nagar.
The networks will stretch over 41.5 km in total.
Transport department's Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) DIMTS (Delhi Integrated Multi-Modal Transit Limited) was entrusted with the task of carrying out a feasibility study of the proposed corridors.
Original news source http://epaper.dailypioneer.com/ThePioneer/Pioneer/2011/01/22/ArticleHtmls/22_01_2011_003_016.shtml
Millennium depot fate hinges on PIL
Saturday, January 22, 2011
The much-touted millennium bus depot of the Delhi government and DTC is under the gaze of the Delhi high court for alleged encroachment over the Yamuna river bed.
HC on Friday clearly told both authorities that the survival of the parking lot, made to house buses recently purchased by DTC in the run up to the 2010 Commonwealth Games, will depend on the outcome of the PIL filed by an NGO. The court, however, declined to stay the construction of an embankment by the city government on the flood plain of the river Yamuna where the world's largest bus depot has been built.
"Any construction carried out shall be subject to outcome of writ petition. The defendant (Delhi Government and DTC) shall not claim any special equity right over the same", a bench led by Chief Justice Dipak Misra said while hearing a PIL filed by V K Jain, the president of the NGO 'Tapas'. The NGO had moved an application challenging the move to use the area as a permanent bus depot and sought a direction for its demolition.
In its plea, the NGO alleged that the depot has been built on the Yamuna river bed violating the zonal laws of Delhi and while it was supposed to be a temporary structure just for the duration of the Games, the authorities have made it permanent parking lot.
"The Delhi government is proceeding to encroach upon the river flood plain in utter disregard to the zonal development plan 2021 of the DDA, approved by the Ministry of Urban Development," the petitioner alleged.
"The action of the government is all the more violative of the concept of good governance for it has, instead of setting an example in showing respect to the law, carried out the construction which is violative of the zonal plan," the petitioner added. He also said the construction of the depot near Nizamuddin Bridge would cause an environmental disaster as the depot is located on the active flood plain and water recharging area.
However, the Delhi government defended the construction saying it doesn't encroach onto the river bed. It also pointed out that there had been constructions on the same land even earlier.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Millennium-depot-fate-hinges-on-PIL/articleshow/7336897.cms#ixzz1BsQtWG9R
Republic Day: Security beefed up, traffic diversions announced
Friday, January 21, 2011
A total of 15,000 security personnel, snipers, sniffer dogs and bomb squads have been deployed by Delhi Police to ensure elaborate security and traffic arrangements for the Republic Day Parade Jan 26 and its full dress rehearsal Sunday, officials said.
'All security arrangements are in place. More than 150 companies (15,000 personnel) from paramilitary and other state forces will be deployed besides Delhi Police personnel. Another 1,500 traffic policemen will also be on the streets,' Joint Commissioner (Traffic) Satyender Garg said.
A massive ground-to-air security apparatus has been put in place for the parade. Snipers will be deployed at high-rise buildings while around 100 CCTVs will keep a tight vigil on people's movement between Rajpath and Red Fort, the route of the parade.
Mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters of National Security Guard will be deployed at various places while paramilitary and Delhi Police commandos will keep a close watch along the parade route.
The security has also beefed up at railway stations across the capital. Around 1,300 security personnel have been deputed at New Delhi and Old Delhi railway stations.
'A total of 700 constables and 600 Home Guards, Railways Protection Force personnel, backed up by sniffer dogs and and bomb disposal squads have been deputed. Gadgets like scanners and CCTVs are in place,' Additional Deputy Commissioner (Railways) B.S. Gujjar told IANS.
'The vendors outside the railways stations are thoroughly being briefed about the security measures and have been asked to keep an eye. The parcel and parking lots will be emptied,' he added.
Security personnel, accompanied by bomb squads and sniffer dogs, will be deployed at public places like railway stations, bus stands and important buildings and markets. Vehicles entering the city will also be checked.
Around a hundred sniffer dogs would be on duty, said an official.
In the Lutyens' zone (central Delhi), which houses government establishments and MPs bungalows, around 2,000 troopers will be on guard. Snipers will also be deployed at key points.
A multi-layer security ring is already put in place at Rajpath, where President Pratibha Patil will unfurl the tricolour and take the salute of marching contingents.
'Special emphasis is being laid on anti-sabotage checks, access control measures and intelligence coordination. The entire route of the parade will be covered by special security and anti-terror arrangements,' said another police official who is part of security arrangements.
The border areas will also witness tight security arrangements. Top police officials from the National Capital Region (NCR) three days ago reviewed the security arrangements and coordination between the security forces.
The meeting was attended by officials from Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Noida and was chaired by Delhi Police Commissioner B.K. Gupta at the Delhi Police headquarters.
Besides the air defence measures, helicopters of the Indian Air Force will hover around Rajpath and all along the route of the parade.
Patrolling in crowded market areas has been intensified and checking and frisking in metro, railway stations, bus terminals and other point of entry to the capital tightened.
Security at the IGI airport has also strengthened in coordination with the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Meanwhile, Garg announced that no vehicles will be allowed to ply on the Rajpath after 6 p.m. on Jan 25 till the end of the parade Jan 26. No traffic will be allowed on Tilak Marg, Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg up to Red Fort after 4 a.m. Jan 26.
For the full-dress rehearsal Sunday, no traffic will be allowed from Vijay Chowk to India Gate from 5 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. while traffic restrictions on the rest of the parade route will be imposed from 10 a.m
Original news source http://www.indiatalkies.com/2011/01/republic-day-security-beefed-traffic-diversions-announced.html
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
DTC buses to face stricter vigil now
Thursday, Jan 20, 2011
After dealing with problems related to vehicles with tinted glass and beacons, Delhi traffic police have now come down heavily on buses run by the Delhi Transport Corporation. The traffic department has asked its men to keep a strict vigil on all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses that ply on Delhi roads and to deal strictly with violators.
"In the first fortnight of January, we have prosecuted 255 DTC buses and impounded 71 buses found to be flouting traffic norms. Last year, during the first fortnight of January, we had prosecuted 106 buses and impounded three buses," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
"No DTC bus to be flouting traffic norms will be spared," added Garg.
At present, a total of 6,200 DTC buses ply on Delhi roads.
These include 2,500 standard buses and 3,700 low-floor buses.
During the first week of November 2010, Delhi traffic police had issued a letter to DTC to immediately install speed governors (the device does not allow buses to ply at a speed higher than 40 km per hour) to all the buses, including 574 buses that were given speed-relaxation, as these had been used for Commonwealth Games duty.
The department had also threatened suspension of permit of the buses that ply without speed governors.
"The buses are fitted with speed governors but many of them have been tampered with by the drivers. Drivers tamper with them so that they can overspeed," said a senior traffic police officer.
Naresh Kumar, managing director, DTC, has admitted that there is a trend of tampering with speed governors fitted in buses.
"It is easy to tamper with speed governors in standard buses. But low floor buses are designed in such a way that such tampering is not so easy," said Kumar.
Welcoming the move by the traffic police, Kumar said: "Traffic rules are the same for all. If you are not spared for violating traffic norms, why would DTC buses be spared?"
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/DTC-buses-to-face-stricter-vigil-now/Article1-652379.aspx
After dealing with problems related to vehicles with tinted glass and beacons, Delhi traffic police have now come down heavily on buses run by the Delhi Transport Corporation. The traffic department has asked its men to keep a strict vigil on all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses that ply on Delhi roads and to deal strictly with violators.
"In the first fortnight of January, we have prosecuted 255 DTC buses and impounded 71 buses found to be flouting traffic norms. Last year, during the first fortnight of January, we had prosecuted 106 buses and impounded three buses," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
"No DTC bus to be flouting traffic norms will be spared," added Garg.
At present, a total of 6,200 DTC buses ply on Delhi roads.
These include 2,500 standard buses and 3,700 low-floor buses.
During the first week of November 2010, Delhi traffic police had issued a letter to DTC to immediately install speed governors (the device does not allow buses to ply at a speed higher than 40 km per hour) to all the buses, including 574 buses that were given speed-relaxation, as these had been used for Commonwealth Games duty.
The department had also threatened suspension of permit of the buses that ply without speed governors.
"The buses are fitted with speed governors but many of them have been tampered with by the drivers. Drivers tamper with them so that they can overspeed," said a senior traffic police officer.
Naresh Kumar, managing director, DTC, has admitted that there is a trend of tampering with speed governors fitted in buses.
"It is easy to tamper with speed governors in standard buses. But low floor buses are designed in such a way that such tampering is not so easy," said Kumar.
Welcoming the move by the traffic police, Kumar said: "Traffic rules are the same for all. If you are not spared for violating traffic norms, why would DTC buses be spared?"
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/DTC-buses-to-face-stricter-vigil-now/Article1-652379.aspx
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Traffic dept runs special drive for safe commuting
Tuesday, Jan 18, 2011
Women may now feel safer while commuting by bus in the Capital, at least till next Friday. All major bus stops in the city would now have uniformed police man to provide security to the bus commuters especially women. Ahead of the Republic Day celebration, Delhi Traffic Police have started a unique drive on Tuesday to ensure security of bus commuters as well as lane driving by buses.
"We have started the special drive on Tuesday by deploying 1,000 police personnel from a lot of 6,000 new recruits who are undergoing trainings now at equal number of bus stops at Ring Road, Outer Ring Road, 15 no tolerance corridors and some other parts of the city," said a senior traffic police officer.
It is a two fold task — ensuring proper traffic management at bus stops and putting back the security environment — ahead of the Republic Day, said a senior officer of the traffic department.
"These uniformed men would man the bus stops daily between 12 noon and 8 pm. Their presence at bus stops would not only assure physical security to women travelers but also give them a psychological comfort," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
During the drive certain issues including plying of buses on designated lanes, behaviour of bus drivers and users, smooth boarding and de-boarding of the passengers and systematic movement of the buses would be looked into.
While the 1,000 cops will not be empowered to prosecute or penalise any vehicle, they would intimate the traffic police if there is any violation of traffic norms and Supreme Court guidelines.
The SC has laid down four restrictions violating which the vehicles can be impounded and slapped a fine of R2,000 or both. These include restricting vehicular speed at 40 kmph, movement of buses in their designated lanes, overtaking any other moving vehicle and picking up the passengers from other than bus stops.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-dept-runs-special-drive-for-safe-commuting/Article1-652035.aspx
Women may now feel safer while commuting by bus in the Capital, at least till next Friday. All major bus stops in the city would now have uniformed police man to provide security to the bus commuters especially women. Ahead of the Republic Day celebration, Delhi Traffic Police have started a unique drive on Tuesday to ensure security of bus commuters as well as lane driving by buses.
"We have started the special drive on Tuesday by deploying 1,000 police personnel from a lot of 6,000 new recruits who are undergoing trainings now at equal number of bus stops at Ring Road, Outer Ring Road, 15 no tolerance corridors and some other parts of the city," said a senior traffic police officer.
It is a two fold task — ensuring proper traffic management at bus stops and putting back the security environment — ahead of the Republic Day, said a senior officer of the traffic department.
"These uniformed men would man the bus stops daily between 12 noon and 8 pm. Their presence at bus stops would not only assure physical security to women travelers but also give them a psychological comfort," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
During the drive certain issues including plying of buses on designated lanes, behaviour of bus drivers and users, smooth boarding and de-boarding of the passengers and systematic movement of the buses would be looked into.
While the 1,000 cops will not be empowered to prosecute or penalise any vehicle, they would intimate the traffic police if there is any violation of traffic norms and Supreme Court guidelines.
The SC has laid down four restrictions violating which the vehicles can be impounded and slapped a fine of R2,000 or both. These include restricting vehicular speed at 40 kmph, movement of buses in their designated lanes, overtaking any other moving vehicle and picking up the passengers from other than bus stops.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Traffic-dept-runs-special-drive-for-safe-commuting/Article1-652035.aspx
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Delhi Police ask motorcyclists to carry requisite papers
Monday, Jan 17, 2011
Carry your original driving licence and copies of registration and insurance papers while riding a motorcycle in the national capital or/else your two-wheeler may get impounded. Delhi Traffic Police today started concentrating on violations by motorcyclists and during a drive, 5,209 motor cycles were checked.
The drive comes in the backdrop of a rise in crimes committed by motorcycle-borne criminals in the city. "We prosecuted 1,880 people today and 15 motorcycles were impounded in absence of ownership proof," Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said.
"It is requested that those on motor cycles in Delhi must have DL in original, at least a copy of RC and insurance papers to prove that the persons riding are genuine owners of the vehicle," he said. Failing satisfactory ownership or suspected stolen motorcycles can be impounded by traffic police, he said, adding that from tomorrow, police is going to intensify the drive.
A rise in such crimes last year, which reversed the trend of the past three years, had prompted city police to redraw its strategy for 2011 which included identification of crime-prone zones and re-deployment of resources there. One of the strategies included extensive checkings of motorcycles as in many cases, motorcycle-borne men were found to be involved in crimes.
Also, they were using stolen motorcycles. People on motor cycles including pillion riders must wear helmets unless being in exempt category of being Sikh or women, Garg said. "Though from security point of view wearing helmet is always beneficial. Not wearing helmet if one is from exempted category may save you from prosecution, but not from injury etc if you are involved in an accident," he said.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-Police-ask-motorcyclists-to-carry-requisite-papers/Article1-651192.aspx
Carry your original driving licence and copies of registration and insurance papers while riding a motorcycle in the national capital or/else your two-wheeler may get impounded. Delhi Traffic Police today started concentrating on violations by motorcyclists and during a drive, 5,209 motor cycles were checked.
The drive comes in the backdrop of a rise in crimes committed by motorcycle-borne criminals in the city. "We prosecuted 1,880 people today and 15 motorcycles were impounded in absence of ownership proof," Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said.
"It is requested that those on motor cycles in Delhi must have DL in original, at least a copy of RC and insurance papers to prove that the persons riding are genuine owners of the vehicle," he said. Failing satisfactory ownership or suspected stolen motorcycles can be impounded by traffic police, he said, adding that from tomorrow, police is going to intensify the drive.
A rise in such crimes last year, which reversed the trend of the past three years, had prompted city police to redraw its strategy for 2011 which included identification of crime-prone zones and re-deployment of resources there. One of the strategies included extensive checkings of motorcycles as in many cases, motorcycle-borne men were found to be involved in crimes.
Also, they were using stolen motorcycles. People on motor cycles including pillion riders must wear helmets unless being in exempt category of being Sikh or women, Garg said. "Though from security point of view wearing helmet is always beneficial. Not wearing helmet if one is from exempted category may save you from prosecution, but not from injury etc if you are involved in an accident," he said.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-Police-ask-motorcyclists-to-carry-requisite-papers/Article1-651192.aspx
R-Day rehearsals, traffic diversions begin today
Monday, Jan 17, 2011
With the Republic Day rehearsals starting on Monday, the Delhi Traffic Police has warned commuters to expect congestion near India Gate and its surrounding areas till noon.
Rehearsals for the January 26 parade will be held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday on Rajpath, which would be closed to traffic from Vijay Chowk to India Gate from 9 to 11.30 am. Cross movement on Rafi Marg, Janpath and Mansingh Road will also be closed during this time.
"Congestion is expected around Rajpath, particularly near India Gate. People must avoid Rajpath and the areas surrounding India Gate at least up to 12 noon. Commuters are advised to use the Ring Road, Mother Teresa Crescent and Mathura Road for better movement," a senior Traffic official said. The Traffic department has advised the public to use the Delhi Metro for hassle-free movement as buses will also be diverted on these routes.
Monday onwards, thousands of security personnel will fan out across the city to prepare for a ground-to-air security cover for the Republic Day.
Snipers will be deployed at high-rise buildings, while around 100 CCTV cameras will keep a tight vigil on movement between Rajpath and the Red Fort — the route of the parade.
Security sources said mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters of the National Security Guard will be deployed at various locations while paramilitary and Delhi Police commandos will keep a close watch along the parade route, which will be covered by special security and anti-terror arrangements. A multi-layer security ring is already in place on Rajpath, where President Pratibha Patil will unfurl the Tricolour and take the salute of the marching contingents.
"Special emphasis is being laid on anti-sabotage checks, access control measures and intelligence coordination," an official said.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/rday-rehearsals-traffic-diversions-begin-today/738225/0
With the Republic Day rehearsals starting on Monday, the Delhi Traffic Police has warned commuters to expect congestion near India Gate and its surrounding areas till noon.
Rehearsals for the January 26 parade will be held on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday on Rajpath, which would be closed to traffic from Vijay Chowk to India Gate from 9 to 11.30 am. Cross movement on Rafi Marg, Janpath and Mansingh Road will also be closed during this time.
"Congestion is expected around Rajpath, particularly near India Gate. People must avoid Rajpath and the areas surrounding India Gate at least up to 12 noon. Commuters are advised to use the Ring Road, Mother Teresa Crescent and Mathura Road for better movement," a senior Traffic official said. The Traffic department has advised the public to use the Delhi Metro for hassle-free movement as buses will also be diverted on these routes.
Monday onwards, thousands of security personnel will fan out across the city to prepare for a ground-to-air security cover for the Republic Day.
Snipers will be deployed at high-rise buildings, while around 100 CCTV cameras will keep a tight vigil on movement between Rajpath and the Red Fort — the route of the parade.
Security sources said mobile hit teams, anti-aircraft guns and sharpshooters of the National Security Guard will be deployed at various locations while paramilitary and Delhi Police commandos will keep a close watch along the parade route, which will be covered by special security and anti-terror arrangements. A multi-layer security ring is already in place on Rajpath, where President Pratibha Patil will unfurl the Tricolour and take the salute of the marching contingents.
"Special emphasis is being laid on anti-sabotage checks, access control measures and intelligence coordination," an official said.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/rday-rehearsals-traffic-diversions-begin-today/738225/0
Indian drivers don't care about road safety
Friday, Jan 14, 2011
A policewoman, part of the five-member team from England which is here to study the functioning of police and traffic regulation in the country, today said drivers in India "are not bothered about road safety."
The team is in the city as part of the cultural exchange programme of Rotary International.
After meeting the City Police Commissioner, C Sylendra Babu, policewoman Toni Mckie told reporters that police personnel in England were "very strict" about traffic violations and accordingly, drivers also followed traffic rules.
However, Mckie said the majority of the drivers in Indian cities, including Coimbatore, drove "without obeying traffic rules" and were "not bothered about road safety."
The team would be in the city for another five days, during which they would study the functioning of police dogs, she said. They would leave for Kochi on Jan 17 to conduct a similar study there, Toni said.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/indian-drivers-dont-care-about-road-safety/737414/
A policewoman, part of the five-member team from England which is here to study the functioning of police and traffic regulation in the country, today said drivers in India "are not bothered about road safety."
The team is in the city as part of the cultural exchange programme of Rotary International.
After meeting the City Police Commissioner, C Sylendra Babu, policewoman Toni Mckie told reporters that police personnel in England were "very strict" about traffic violations and accordingly, drivers also followed traffic rules.
However, Mckie said the majority of the drivers in Indian cities, including Coimbatore, drove "without obeying traffic rules" and were "not bothered about road safety."
The team would be in the city for another five days, during which they would study the functioning of police dogs, she said. They would leave for Kochi on Jan 17 to conduct a similar study there, Toni said.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/indian-drivers-dont-care-about-road-safety/737414/
Multi-level parking lots at Sarojini, CP to open by April
Friday, Jan 14, 2011
This summer, people visiting Sarojini Nagar and Connaught Place will not be complaining about lack of parking space. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has already constructed multi-level car parking (MLCP) structures at Sarojini Nagar and Baba Kharak Singh Marg, and is scheduled to open them by April.
Though the two MLCPs were to be completed by the Commonwealth Games, the work got delayed due to difficulty in getting clearances. However, by December 2010, the NDMC completed work on a nine-storey MLCP at BKS Marg and a similar eight-storey structure at Sarojini Nagar. In both the facilities, cars will enter through the basement and then be taken up by car lifts as well as other mechanical devices. While the structures took over two years for completion, the installation of the required machinery is expected to be completed in four months.
The MLCP at BKS Marg — with a parking capacity of 1,408 cars — is expected to cater to traffic coming to Connaught Place, Hanuman Mandir and state emporiums on the road. According to NDMC officials, parking a car as well as taking it out will take less than a minute. While driving the vehicle in, motorists will be given a slip bearing a unique identification number.
At present, installation work is being carried out by DLF, which is building the two parking lots on build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis. NDMC spokesperson Anand Tiwari said though the rates have currently been fixed at Rs 10 per hour, the authorities are yet to decide if the parking facility should be kept open on a round-the-clock basis. "These are some operational details that have to be sorted out before the parking facility is opened to the public," he said. The automated parking facilities will have car lifts, pallets and computerised control systems.
The MLCP at Sarojini Nagar will be able to accommodate 824 vehicles.
Though a third facility was to come up on Kasturba Gandhi Marg, the project is yet to see the light of the day. The site was cleared in December 2009, but work came to a standstill after the Archaeological Survey of India denied permission — pointing out that the heritage monument, Agrasen ki Baoli, is located just 300 metres from the spot. The 6,219-sq ft parking lot was supposed to hold 1,582 cars.
The plan to build three multi-level parking lots, for solving parking-related issues in the Capital, was floated in 2007.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/multilevel-parking-lots-at-sarojini-cp-to-open-by-april/737118/0
This summer, people visiting Sarojini Nagar and Connaught Place will not be complaining about lack of parking space. The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has already constructed multi-level car parking (MLCP) structures at Sarojini Nagar and Baba Kharak Singh Marg, and is scheduled to open them by April.
Though the two MLCPs were to be completed by the Commonwealth Games, the work got delayed due to difficulty in getting clearances. However, by December 2010, the NDMC completed work on a nine-storey MLCP at BKS Marg and a similar eight-storey structure at Sarojini Nagar. In both the facilities, cars will enter through the basement and then be taken up by car lifts as well as other mechanical devices. While the structures took over two years for completion, the installation of the required machinery is expected to be completed in four months.
The MLCP at BKS Marg — with a parking capacity of 1,408 cars — is expected to cater to traffic coming to Connaught Place, Hanuman Mandir and state emporiums on the road. According to NDMC officials, parking a car as well as taking it out will take less than a minute. While driving the vehicle in, motorists will be given a slip bearing a unique identification number.
At present, installation work is being carried out by DLF, which is building the two parking lots on build-operate-transfer (BOT) basis. NDMC spokesperson Anand Tiwari said though the rates have currently been fixed at Rs 10 per hour, the authorities are yet to decide if the parking facility should be kept open on a round-the-clock basis. "These are some operational details that have to be sorted out before the parking facility is opened to the public," he said. The automated parking facilities will have car lifts, pallets and computerised control systems.
The MLCP at Sarojini Nagar will be able to accommodate 824 vehicles.
Though a third facility was to come up on Kasturba Gandhi Marg, the project is yet to see the light of the day. The site was cleared in December 2009, but work came to a standstill after the Archaeological Survey of India denied permission — pointing out that the heritage monument, Agrasen ki Baoli, is located just 300 metres from the spot. The 6,219-sq ft parking lot was supposed to hold 1,582 cars.
The plan to build three multi-level parking lots, for solving parking-related issues in the Capital, was floated in 2007.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/multilevel-parking-lots-at-sarojini-cp-to-open-by-april/737118/0
Flyovers don’t make a road
Thursday, Jan 13, 2011
This is one dream that has taken years and expenditure running into hundreds of crores to materialise but still refuses to come true. The UP Link Road was supposed to be a futuristic, signal-free highway promising to be a treat for those commuting to and from one of the most integral satellite towns of the Capital.
Two years after they planned to kill two birds with one stone, the Public Works Department's (PWD) plans to de-congest east Delhi, in addition to providing 'world-class' passage to a variety of vehicles headed to satellite towns such as Noida and Vaishali, have crumbled.
"My advice to whoever thinks that flyovers are the solution to all and sundry traffic problem is, don't construct just for the sake of constructing. If you spend hundreds of crores in making flyovers, then why can't you spare just a fraction of the time and money in conducting safety audits to ascertain the operational problems that commuters face on a daily basis," asked Professor PK Sarkar, a senior road safety and traffic infrastructure expert. Professor Sarkar is currently with the School of Planning and Architecture.
As per records tabulated by Delhi Traffic Police, the Kalyanpuri traffic circle, which consists of arterial routes such as the UP Link Road, National Highway 24 and Ghazipur, has borne witness to 78 commuter deaths in 2010.
"The drop in road fatalities from 82 in 2009 to 78 in 2010 is encouraging. This improvement has been possible only due to stricter law enforcement especially by our chase and challan squad," claimed Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
However, sources attributed the abysmally low drop to the area's proximity to the Commonwealth Games Village, located adjacent to Akshardham Temple.
"It was only because multiple agencies, including the traffic police, the Delhi Development Authority and the PWD, were engaged till the very last moment to prevent any major embarrassment during the fortnight-long Commonwealth Games in October. The names of locations were wrongly spelt on signboards and there was absolutely no police presence on the stretch except near the Games Village and Akshardham in the run up to the games," said a senior traffic police officer requesting anonymity.
Despite having pulled the Games off however, the UP Link road continues to suffer from massive design faults and criminal neglect of basic engineering principles, according to road experts.
"Road signage is improperly located and misleading, dysfunctional lighting at and near both flyovers: There is no road signage to guide commuters on either side of the Pandav Nagar flyover. Material used to lay subsequent layers of tar on each carriageway is not conducive for two-wheeler drivers as it is slippery, there is no lane marking on any of the three flyovers — this becomes a major problem on the Pandav Nagar flyover that has a bus stop located a few metres after descending it," Professor Sarkar said.
Perpetually ongoing construction work has made the stretch worse than ever before.
"Construction work is underway on almost the entire stretch but there is no barricading, no 'Men at Work' signs. This area should ideally be divided into and advance zone, a transition zone and work zone," Professor Sarkar added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Flyovers-don-t-make-a-road/Article1-650064.aspx
This is one dream that has taken years and expenditure running into hundreds of crores to materialise but still refuses to come true. The UP Link Road was supposed to be a futuristic, signal-free highway promising to be a treat for those commuting to and from one of the most integral satellite towns of the Capital.
Two years after they planned to kill two birds with one stone, the Public Works Department's (PWD) plans to de-congest east Delhi, in addition to providing 'world-class' passage to a variety of vehicles headed to satellite towns such as Noida and Vaishali, have crumbled.
"My advice to whoever thinks that flyovers are the solution to all and sundry traffic problem is, don't construct just for the sake of constructing. If you spend hundreds of crores in making flyovers, then why can't you spare just a fraction of the time and money in conducting safety audits to ascertain the operational problems that commuters face on a daily basis," asked Professor PK Sarkar, a senior road safety and traffic infrastructure expert. Professor Sarkar is currently with the School of Planning and Architecture.
As per records tabulated by Delhi Traffic Police, the Kalyanpuri traffic circle, which consists of arterial routes such as the UP Link Road, National Highway 24 and Ghazipur, has borne witness to 78 commuter deaths in 2010.
"The drop in road fatalities from 82 in 2009 to 78 in 2010 is encouraging. This improvement has been possible only due to stricter law enforcement especially by our chase and challan squad," claimed Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
However, sources attributed the abysmally low drop to the area's proximity to the Commonwealth Games Village, located adjacent to Akshardham Temple.
"It was only because multiple agencies, including the traffic police, the Delhi Development Authority and the PWD, were engaged till the very last moment to prevent any major embarrassment during the fortnight-long Commonwealth Games in October. The names of locations were wrongly spelt on signboards and there was absolutely no police presence on the stretch except near the Games Village and Akshardham in the run up to the games," said a senior traffic police officer requesting anonymity.
Despite having pulled the Games off however, the UP Link road continues to suffer from massive design faults and criminal neglect of basic engineering principles, according to road experts.
"Road signage is improperly located and misleading, dysfunctional lighting at and near both flyovers: There is no road signage to guide commuters on either side of the Pandav Nagar flyover. Material used to lay subsequent layers of tar on each carriageway is not conducive for two-wheeler drivers as it is slippery, there is no lane marking on any of the three flyovers — this becomes a major problem on the Pandav Nagar flyover that has a bus stop located a few metres after descending it," Professor Sarkar said.
Perpetually ongoing construction work has made the stretch worse than ever before.
"Construction work is underway on almost the entire stretch but there is no barricading, no 'Men at Work' signs. This area should ideally be divided into and advance zone, a transition zone and work zone," Professor Sarkar added.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Flyovers-don-t-make-a-road/Article1-650064.aspx
Delhi Traffic police gives noc for 60 parking sites
Thursday, Jan 13, 2011
Expect a hassle-free parking experience while you visit your favourite shopping haunt in the city next time. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has got a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Delhi Traffic Police for running 60 parking sites in the city. On an average these surface parking lots will create additional space for 6,000 cars at a given point of time.
The civic agency has sent a list of 200 odd parking lots to the traffic police out of which 35 have been given a go ahead. In addition to this, 25 additional sites have also bee given approval by them.
"The 35 parking lots have already been tendered and will be made operational. The additional 25 ones will be tendered by us soon and will be available for the people," said a senior MCD official.
The civic body currently has only 116 odd surface parking lots. With the approval by the Delhi Traffic Police the number has gone up to 176. "We hope that the entire list of 200 parking lots will be approved by the traffic police," added the official.
"We have given clearance to the MCD for a number of sites. We will be approving some more sites soon. All those sites where traffic flow is affected due to the presence of a parking lot will not be given approval," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Delhi Traffic Police had recently refused to give No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the MCD for running these parking lots. The civic agency had taken up the matter with them.
"In the absence of legal parking lots parking mafia were overcharging the people by running these sites illegally. It is better to legalise them rather than let it be run illegally," added the official.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-Traffic-police-gives-noc-for-60-parking-sites/Article1-649610.aspx
Expect a hassle-free parking experience while you visit your favourite shopping haunt in the city next time. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has got a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Delhi Traffic Police for running 60 parking sites in the city. On an average these surface parking lots will create additional space for 6,000 cars at a given point of time.
The civic agency has sent a list of 200 odd parking lots to the traffic police out of which 35 have been given a go ahead. In addition to this, 25 additional sites have also bee given approval by them.
"The 35 parking lots have already been tendered and will be made operational. The additional 25 ones will be tendered by us soon and will be available for the people," said a senior MCD official.
The civic body currently has only 116 odd surface parking lots. With the approval by the Delhi Traffic Police the number has gone up to 176. "We hope that the entire list of 200 parking lots will be approved by the traffic police," added the official.
"We have given clearance to the MCD for a number of sites. We will be approving some more sites soon. All those sites where traffic flow is affected due to the presence of a parking lot will not be given approval," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Delhi Traffic Police had recently refused to give No Objection Certificate (NOC) to the MCD for running these parking lots. The civic agency had taken up the matter with them.
"In the absence of legal parking lots parking mafia were overcharging the people by running these sites illegally. It is better to legalise them rather than let it be run illegally," added the official.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Delhi-Traffic-police-gives-noc-for-60-parking-sites/Article1-649610.aspx
Soon, park your cars at new multi-level parking in CP
Wednesday, Jan 12, 2011
Get ready to shell out more money to park your car in the busy Connaught Place (CP). Delhi's first computerised, multi-level parking lot is all set to open shortly at Baba Kharak Singh Marg. The building's civic structure is complete and currently machinery is being installed by the private company that is constructing it.
According to New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), three floors of the building have been commissioned and mechanical work has also been carried out. The parking lot has one basement, one ground floor and nine floors on the top. Work on rest of the floors is underway.
To park your car, you will have to shell out Rs 10 per hour, whereas currently Rs 10 is charged for parking the vehicles for two hours in CP.
"We hope to complete the work related to testing and commissioning by February and will try to make it operational by March end," said a senior NDMC official.
Once commissioning and testing has been carried out, the NDMC seek clearance from the Delhi Arts Urban Commission and Delhi Fire Services.
Under this automatic system, the cars will be whisked away in lifts as soon as they book into the multi-level parking lot, and directed by computers into vacant slots, and similarly brought back to the car owner once he/she returns.
Unlike the ramp multi-level parking lots where the driver has to go all the way to the parking area to park the vehicle, under this system the lifts will move the cars to the upper levels depending on the vacant space. Just like an airport conveyor machine, the cars, once parked inside, will continue to move vertically or horizontally depending on the vacant spots. At a given point 1,408 vehicles can be parked in this lot.
"Once a car is placed on the platform, a computer command will indicate where to deposit the vehicle. The process for retrieval will hardly take two minute," added the official. A smart card will also be issued to the car owner which will have a unique identification number linking the car details to the pallete on which the vehicle will be placed. Bigger cars such as SUVs will have a different parking space inside the parking lot. The parking lot is being built on a Build Operate Transfer (BOT) basis and the construction work had started in October 2009.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Soon-park-your-cars-at-new-multi-level-parking-in-CP/Article1-649211.aspx
Get ready to shell out more money to park your car in the busy Connaught Place (CP). Delhi's first computerised, multi-level parking lot is all set to open shortly at Baba Kharak Singh Marg. The building's civic structure is complete and currently machinery is being installed by the private company that is constructing it.
According to New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), three floors of the building have been commissioned and mechanical work has also been carried out. The parking lot has one basement, one ground floor and nine floors on the top. Work on rest of the floors is underway.
To park your car, you will have to shell out Rs 10 per hour, whereas currently Rs 10 is charged for parking the vehicles for two hours in CP.
"We hope to complete the work related to testing and commissioning by February and will try to make it operational by March end," said a senior NDMC official.
Once commissioning and testing has been carried out, the NDMC seek clearance from the Delhi Arts Urban Commission and Delhi Fire Services.
Under this automatic system, the cars will be whisked away in lifts as soon as they book into the multi-level parking lot, and directed by computers into vacant slots, and similarly brought back to the car owner once he/she returns.
Unlike the ramp multi-level parking lots where the driver has to go all the way to the parking area to park the vehicle, under this system the lifts will move the cars to the upper levels depending on the vacant space. Just like an airport conveyor machine, the cars, once parked inside, will continue to move vertically or horizontally depending on the vacant spots. At a given point 1,408 vehicles can be parked in this lot.
"Once a car is placed on the platform, a computer command will indicate where to deposit the vehicle. The process for retrieval will hardly take two minute," added the official. A smart card will also be issued to the car owner which will have a unique identification number linking the car details to the pallete on which the vehicle will be placed. Bigger cars such as SUVs will have a different parking space inside the parking lot. The parking lot is being built on a Build Operate Transfer (BOT) basis and the construction work had started in October 2009.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Soon-park-your-cars-at-new-multi-level-parking-in-CP/Article1-649211.aspx
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Plan for more CP subways stays
Tuesday, Jan 11, 2011
Connaught Place traders on Monday met with NDMC officials to sort out issues related to starting work on the CP redevelopment plan. While the civic agency has agreed to allow parking in the Middle Circle, it is unwilling to compromise on its plan to construct more subways in the area, according to officials. The work of barricading the area is likely to begin by Monday night with some work already having started in CP.
"We had a meeting with senior officials in NDMC to sort out issues and went around CP to work out the best alternatives to avoid any traffic mess in the area. Some of our suggestions, including allowing parking in the Middle Circle, have been agreed to. NDMC will also look into providing one slot of parking in the Radial area. Initially, work will begin in six blocks - A, B, C, G, H and K - and the Regal and P-blocks. This work is likely to finish in eight months after which work will start in the other six blocks - D, E, F, L, M and N. We have also asked NDMC to reconsider its plans of constructing more subways. The existing five subways are hardly used and are not properly maintained,'' said president of New Delhi Traders Association, Atul Bharghav. The traders have asked NDMC to hire an independent agency to assess if there is any requirement for more subways in CP.
According to NDMC officials, however, while the agency is willing to look into all suggestions made by NDTA, it will go ahead with construction of eight more subways. "We are willing to explore all options to avoid any inconvenience but will go ahead with our original plan of constructing subways in CP,'' said an NDMC official. The civic body has already started work of opening the Panchkuian Radial Road.
NTDA said the new barricading plan will leave 50% space for traffic in the Middle Circle as opposed to the earlier plan under which almost 80% of the space would have been taken up.
In phase-I NDMC will start work on four subways at Panchkuian Road and Barakhamba Road. Work of constructing the service corridor will also begin in Middle Circle and at four radial roads. All the radial roads will be partially open at all times. In phase-II the civic agency will take up work of constructing four more subways and service corridor work will be taken up along three more radial roads. General beautification and remaining façade restoration work will also be taken up.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Plan-for-more-CP-subways-stays/articleshow/7255210.cms#ixzz1Aukq6P5S
Connaught Place traders on Monday met with NDMC officials to sort out issues related to starting work on the CP redevelopment plan. While the civic agency has agreed to allow parking in the Middle Circle, it is unwilling to compromise on its plan to construct more subways in the area, according to officials. The work of barricading the area is likely to begin by Monday night with some work already having started in CP.
"We had a meeting with senior officials in NDMC to sort out issues and went around CP to work out the best alternatives to avoid any traffic mess in the area. Some of our suggestions, including allowing parking in the Middle Circle, have been agreed to. NDMC will also look into providing one slot of parking in the Radial area. Initially, work will begin in six blocks - A, B, C, G, H and K - and the Regal and P-blocks. This work is likely to finish in eight months after which work will start in the other six blocks - D, E, F, L, M and N. We have also asked NDMC to reconsider its plans of constructing more subways. The existing five subways are hardly used and are not properly maintained,'' said president of New Delhi Traders Association, Atul Bharghav. The traders have asked NDMC to hire an independent agency to assess if there is any requirement for more subways in CP.
According to NDMC officials, however, while the agency is willing to look into all suggestions made by NDTA, it will go ahead with construction of eight more subways. "We are willing to explore all options to avoid any inconvenience but will go ahead with our original plan of constructing subways in CP,'' said an NDMC official. The civic body has already started work of opening the Panchkuian Radial Road.
NTDA said the new barricading plan will leave 50% space for traffic in the Middle Circle as opposed to the earlier plan under which almost 80% of the space would have been taken up.
In phase-I NDMC will start work on four subways at Panchkuian Road and Barakhamba Road. Work of constructing the service corridor will also begin in Middle Circle and at four radial roads. All the radial roads will be partially open at all times. In phase-II the civic agency will take up work of constructing four more subways and service corridor work will be taken up along three more radial roads. General beautification and remaining façade restoration work will also be taken up.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Plan-for-more-CP-subways-stays/articleshow/7255210.cms#ixzz1Aukq6P5S
Left turns opened to ease traffic in Old Delhi
Sunday, Jan 09, 2011
After six months of hardships for commuters as well as the traffic police in Old Delhi, Lieutenant-Governor Tejendra Khanna has ordered the opening of left turns on SP Mukherjee Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Unified Traffic and Transportation Infrastructure, Planning and Engineering Centre (UTTIPEC) with all the stakeholders on Friday.
This was a pilot project of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), aimed at decongesting SP Mukherjee Marg by segregating motorised and non-motorised vehicles.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Left-turns-opened-to-ease-traffic-in-Old-Delhi/735221/
After six months of hardships for commuters as well as the traffic police in Old Delhi, Lieutenant-Governor Tejendra Khanna has ordered the opening of left turns on SP Mukherjee Marg and Netaji Subhash Marg. The decision was taken at a meeting of the Unified Traffic and Transportation Infrastructure, Planning and Engineering Centre (UTTIPEC) with all the stakeholders on Friday.
This was a pilot project of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), aimed at decongesting SP Mukherjee Marg by segregating motorised and non-motorised vehicles.
Original news source http://www.indianexpress.com/news/Left-turns-opened-to-ease-traffic-in-Old-Delhi/735221/
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Delhi Police goes hi-tech but it is still time before they are installed
Friday, January 07, 2011
Police commissioner B K Gupta went to great lengths to explain the importance of modern communication and technology in detecting crimes in the city. "We have seen in the past few days in the case of the Dhaula Kuan gangrape and the spate of robberies in outer district how even CCTV footage can help crack cases. As a first step, we hope to complete the installation of the Intelligent Traffic System Network (ITSN) in a phased manner in the next two years,'' said Gupta.
According to senior police officers, ITSN will span 265km of road length, covering 277 signalized junctions in the city. A total of 1,687 cameras will be installed along the route and there will be specific cameras to record specific breach of the law. "The plan is to install specialized cameras in such a manner that these record the movement of all offenders. While 52 will be used as enforcement cameras, 35 of the cameras will record traffic signal violations and 36 others on open stretches will record speed violations,'' said joint CP (traffic) Satyendra Garg.
Top cop Gupta also talked about the installation of CCTVs at 29 major city markets in the next three months. "ECIL will complete this work by March. The project will cover 57 markets and 27 border points, and will be an essential tool to counter terrorism and street crime. This will also help us control traffic. The entire network will be monitored from C4i centre at the police headquarters. C4i proved its worth during the Commonwealth Games when it was the nerve centre of activity. Now it will connect us with the entire city,'' Gupta later told Times City.
The automatic finger and palm print identification system has also been installed at all police stations. "Besides inkless and paperless collection of fingerprints, this process helps in instant identification of the criminal,'' said Gupta. The cops said a "Cyber Highway" will also be created. "This integrated data communication network will converge all services currently provided by Delhi Police on the net,'' said Gupta, adding that MHA has also approved for supply, installation and commissioning of Integrated Voice and Data Communication and Recording System to upgrade district and unit control room operations.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Delhi-Police-goes-hi-tech-but-it-is-still-time-before-they-are-installed/articleshow/7232391.cms
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Cops see red over cars with unauthorized beacons
Thursday, Jan 06, 2011
Pretensions may not be uncommon in Delhi. But when they take on an official guise, the pretenders are criminals. With several recent cases of criminals using official logos on their cars and red beacon cars – including the most recent one involving two youths with 21 cases of robbery and snatching to their credit in northwest Delhi – Delhi Traffic Police have cracked down on unauthorized cars carrying red beacons and flashers.
On Tuesday and Wednesday alone, 27 people were prosecuted for carrying red beacons in their car without permission. Explained joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg, "We have already prosecuted 27 car owners from all parts of Delhi and will prosecute any vehicles unauthorized to carry the red beacon. No violators will be tolerated and the last two days' prosecutions reflect our resolve."
The drive, launched all over Delhi, is being carried out by over 400 traffic cops. "We have placed two teams each in many intersections in Delhi and are stopping cars to check whether they are authorized to carry the red beacon. The drive is being carried out by teams who are also checking for tinted glasses which takes place between 11am and 5pm," said JCP Garg.
The prosecutions so far include a car belonging to an MP, and those belonging to several MLAs, a transport commissioner of a north Indian state and many zila pramukhs and block presidents, claimed traffic cops. The prosecutions have so far been scattered in all parts of Delhi with no single region appearing to have the major number of unauthorized red beacon cars.
However, the car owners prosecuted don't appear cowed by the move at first, some even arguing that their vehicles are authorized. "We face different problems with different people. Some claim that they have gifted their cars to authorized people while some try to use political muscle in order to have their way. However, traffic cops have the list of authorized people with them so these claims will not be entertained. Strict policing is the only way to deal with the issue," said a traffic police officer.
Red beacon cars with flashers on the top are only allowed for the President of India, Vice-President, Prime Minister, former Presidents and prime ministers, deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Cabinet Ministers of the Union, Judges of the Supreme Court, leaders of Opposition in the Rajya and Lok Sabha, Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister among others while on duty anywhere in the jurisdiction of the NCT of Delhi. Red beacon without flashers on top is, meanwhile, allowed for Chief Election Commissioner, Comptroller and Auditor General of India among others.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Cops-see-red-over-cars-with-unauthorized-beacons/articleshow/7226739.cms#ixzz1AET6PTfu
Pretensions may not be uncommon in Delhi. But when they take on an official guise, the pretenders are criminals. With several recent cases of criminals using official logos on their cars and red beacon cars – including the most recent one involving two youths with 21 cases of robbery and snatching to their credit in northwest Delhi – Delhi Traffic Police have cracked down on unauthorized cars carrying red beacons and flashers.
On Tuesday and Wednesday alone, 27 people were prosecuted for carrying red beacons in their car without permission. Explained joint commissioner of police (traffic) Satyendra Garg, "We have already prosecuted 27 car owners from all parts of Delhi and will prosecute any vehicles unauthorized to carry the red beacon. No violators will be tolerated and the last two days' prosecutions reflect our resolve."
The drive, launched all over Delhi, is being carried out by over 400 traffic cops. "We have placed two teams each in many intersections in Delhi and are stopping cars to check whether they are authorized to carry the red beacon. The drive is being carried out by teams who are also checking for tinted glasses which takes place between 11am and 5pm," said JCP Garg.
The prosecutions so far include a car belonging to an MP, and those belonging to several MLAs, a transport commissioner of a north Indian state and many zila pramukhs and block presidents, claimed traffic cops. The prosecutions have so far been scattered in all parts of Delhi with no single region appearing to have the major number of unauthorized red beacon cars.
However, the car owners prosecuted don't appear cowed by the move at first, some even arguing that their vehicles are authorized. "We face different problems with different people. Some claim that they have gifted their cars to authorized people while some try to use political muscle in order to have their way. However, traffic cops have the list of authorized people with them so these claims will not be entertained. Strict policing is the only way to deal with the issue," said a traffic police officer.
Red beacon cars with flashers on the top are only allowed for the President of India, Vice-President, Prime Minister, former Presidents and prime ministers, deputy Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India, Speaker of Lok Sabha, Cabinet Ministers of the Union, Judges of the Supreme Court, leaders of Opposition in the Rajya and Lok Sabha, Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister among others while on duty anywhere in the jurisdiction of the NCT of Delhi. Red beacon without flashers on top is, meanwhile, allowed for Chief Election Commissioner, Comptroller and Auditor General of India among others.
Original news source http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/delhi/Cops-see-red-over-cars-with-unauthorized-beacons/articleshow/7226739.cms#ixzz1AET6PTfu
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
NDMC to restart CP redevelopment, chaos ahead
Monday, Jan 03, 2011
Expect traffic chaos on Connaught Place for at least next eight months from Tuesday as a civic agency is restarting its redevelopment work at the capital's commercial hotspot.
The redevelopment work at the Connaught Place is undertaken by New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), which has been allowed to do soft barricading which could lead to shrinkage of road space.
The redevelopment work of Connaught Place, including construction of remaining work of subways at Panchkuian Road, Barakhamba Road and service corridor in the middle circle and on Radial Roads, will start from Tuesday.
NDMC to restart CP redevelopment, chaos ahead
The NDMC had completed facade restoration and some other works in the CP redevelopment project before the Commonwealth Games in October last year.
"NDMC has been permitted to do soft barricading for the proposed redevelopment work. As a consequence, congestion is expected in and around Connaught Place from tomorrow," Sateyndra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said.
Redevelopment Plan of Connaught Place envisages minimum 240 days or eight months for construction of subways and middle circle work, he said.
There will be no parking available on middle circle and Radial Roads 2,3,4, and 7 during redevelopment work while there will be no movement of traffic in the middle circle of Connaught Place.
"People who can avoid coming to Connaught Place should avoid in view of the expected congestion and those coming here are advised to use Metro and other public transport for their own convenience," Garg said.
With the commencement of work, people will be able to enter inner circle through Radial No 1 at Janpath, Radial No 3 at Panchkuian Road, Radial No 4 State Entry Road and Radial No 6 in the vicinity of Shankar Market.
Traffic from inner circle will be able to come out from Radial No 1-A at Sansad Marg, Radial Road No 2 at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Radial Road No 5 at Minto Road and Radial Road No 7 at Barakhamba Road.
Radial Road No 3 and 4 for entry and Radial Road No 2 and 7 for exit will be partially available for traffic movement.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ndmc-to-restart-cp-redevelopment-chaos-ahead/139319-3.html
Expect traffic chaos on Connaught Place for at least next eight months from Tuesday as a civic agency is restarting its redevelopment work at the capital's commercial hotspot.
The redevelopment work at the Connaught Place is undertaken by New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC), which has been allowed to do soft barricading which could lead to shrinkage of road space.
The redevelopment work of Connaught Place, including construction of remaining work of subways at Panchkuian Road, Barakhamba Road and service corridor in the middle circle and on Radial Roads, will start from Tuesday.
NDMC to restart CP redevelopment, chaos ahead
The NDMC had completed facade restoration and some other works in the CP redevelopment project before the Commonwealth Games in October last year.
"NDMC has been permitted to do soft barricading for the proposed redevelopment work. As a consequence, congestion is expected in and around Connaught Place from tomorrow," Sateyndra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said.
Redevelopment Plan of Connaught Place envisages minimum 240 days or eight months for construction of subways and middle circle work, he said.
There will be no parking available on middle circle and Radial Roads 2,3,4, and 7 during redevelopment work while there will be no movement of traffic in the middle circle of Connaught Place.
"People who can avoid coming to Connaught Place should avoid in view of the expected congestion and those coming here are advised to use Metro and other public transport for their own convenience," Garg said.
With the commencement of work, people will be able to enter inner circle through Radial No 1 at Janpath, Radial No 3 at Panchkuian Road, Radial No 4 State Entry Road and Radial No 6 in the vicinity of Shankar Market.
Traffic from inner circle will be able to come out from Radial No 1-A at Sansad Marg, Radial Road No 2 at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Radial Road No 5 at Minto Road and Radial Road No 7 at Barakhamba Road.
Radial Road No 3 and 4 for entry and Radial Road No 2 and 7 for exit will be partially available for traffic movement.
Original news source http://ibnlive.in.com/news/ndmc-to-restart-cp-redevelopment-chaos-ahead/139319-3.html
Sunday, January 2, 2011
No Honking Day observed in noisy Capital
Monday, Jan 03, 2011
To generate awareness about noise pollution and against 'honking without reason', the first day of the new year was observed as 'No Honking Day' in the Capital. Members of The Earth Saviours Foundation, a non-government organisation, the Delhi traffic police and a private company organised a No Honking Campaign at the Janpath intersection by displaying banners, posters and putting up stickers on vehicles.
"Motorists start blowing horns without waiting for the signal to turn green or letting the traffic move on. They are not mindful of honking being prohibited at traffic signals and near hospitals, schools, religious places or residential complexes," said Ravi Kalra, founder president, The Earth Saviours Foundation.
"Vehicular honking in metropolitan cities has reached an alarming level; it contributes about 70% to noise pollution," Kalra said.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/No-Honking-Day-observed-in-noisy-Capital/Article1-645416.aspx
To generate awareness about noise pollution and against 'honking without reason', the first day of the new year was observed as 'No Honking Day' in the Capital. Members of The Earth Saviours Foundation, a non-government organisation, the Delhi traffic police and a private company organised a No Honking Campaign at the Janpath intersection by displaying banners, posters and putting up stickers on vehicles.
"Motorists start blowing horns without waiting for the signal to turn green or letting the traffic move on. They are not mindful of honking being prohibited at traffic signals and near hospitals, schools, religious places or residential complexes," said Ravi Kalra, founder president, The Earth Saviours Foundation.
"Vehicular honking in metropolitan cities has reached an alarming level; it contributes about 70% to noise pollution," Kalra said.
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/No-Honking-Day-observed-in-noisy-Capital/Article1-645416.aspx
Delhi Police plans to name drunk drivers on its website
Monday, Jan 03, 2011
It could well be a 'Hall of Shame' on the website of Delhi Police if its plans to make public the names of those jailed for drunken driving in the national capital come through.
The move comes in the backdrop of its plan to clear the Delhi roads of traffic violators and educate people against the dangers of drunken driving.
"We are mulling the possibility of putting the names of those convicted for drunken driving on our website. We don't think that there could be any problem as it is a list of people who were jailed by courts," Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), told PTI.
Last year, over 10,800 people were fined for driving under the influence of alcohol. Out of this, driving licences of 580 were suspended while 710 people were imprisoned upto ten days.
In 2008, a total of 7,579 people were prosecuted for drunken driving while the next year saw a steep increase in challans on this front to 12,109. The figure in 2007 for the same offence was 3,748.
Police attributed this rise to its aggressive challan drive.
Delhi Police had in August moved a Delhi Court seeking its permission for allowing imprisonment in some cases of drunk driving.
Police attribute 40 per cent of the road accidents in the Capital to drunken driving. Over 1,900 fatal accidents have been reported in the capital this year.
On the New Year eve, police challaned 388 revellers for drunken driving.
"Those 388 prosecuted for drunken driving were instructed to appear before courts to face the penalty of possible jail term apart from suspension of driving licence and fines," he said.
Anybody found driving or attempting to drive a vehicle above the permissible limit of alcohol in the blood (30mg/100 ml) faces imprisonment upto six months or a Rs. 2,000 fine or both.
If it is a subsequent challan, the offenders may end up getting a jail term of upto two years or a fine of Rs. 3,000 or both.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/delhi-police-plans-to-name-drunk-drivers-on-its-website-76392
It could well be a 'Hall of Shame' on the website of Delhi Police if its plans to make public the names of those jailed for drunken driving in the national capital come through.
The move comes in the backdrop of its plan to clear the Delhi roads of traffic violators and educate people against the dangers of drunken driving.
"We are mulling the possibility of putting the names of those convicted for drunken driving on our website. We don't think that there could be any problem as it is a list of people who were jailed by courts," Satyendra Garg, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), told PTI.
Last year, over 10,800 people were fined for driving under the influence of alcohol. Out of this, driving licences of 580 were suspended while 710 people were imprisoned upto ten days.
In 2008, a total of 7,579 people were prosecuted for drunken driving while the next year saw a steep increase in challans on this front to 12,109. The figure in 2007 for the same offence was 3,748.
Police attributed this rise to its aggressive challan drive.
Delhi Police had in August moved a Delhi Court seeking its permission for allowing imprisonment in some cases of drunk driving.
Police attribute 40 per cent of the road accidents in the Capital to drunken driving. Over 1,900 fatal accidents have been reported in the capital this year.
On the New Year eve, police challaned 388 revellers for drunken driving.
"Those 388 prosecuted for drunken driving were instructed to appear before courts to face the penalty of possible jail term apart from suspension of driving licence and fines," he said.
Anybody found driving or attempting to drive a vehicle above the permissible limit of alcohol in the blood (30mg/100 ml) faces imprisonment upto six months or a Rs. 2,000 fine or both.
If it is a subsequent challan, the offenders may end up getting a jail term of upto two years or a fine of Rs. 3,000 or both.
Original news source http://www.ndtv.com/article/cities/delhi-police-plans-to-name-drunk-drivers-on-its-website-76392
Cops play gentlemen: Drunk drivers sent home in cabs
Sunday, Jan 02, 2011
The Delhi Police went hammer and tongs after drunk drivers on Friday night. For the first time ever, the traffic police summoned violators to court instead of just letting them off with a nominal R100 fine.
"We prosecuted 484 persons for various traffic offences last night. While 388 people were booked for drink driving, the remaining were prosecuted for offences such as violation of Supreme Court guidelines, tinted glasses and defective number plates," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Garg said those apprehended for drunken driving were instructed to appear before courts, where they face the possibility of getting jail term besides having their licences suspended and being made to pay fines up to R2,000.
Also, this year, the traffic police booked twice the number of offenders as compared to 2009, when only 189 were challaned.
Owing to massive police deployment, Delhi roads remained fatal accident-free on New Year's eve. "We deployed around 500 traffic police motorcycles and 100-odd teams to check drink driving," Garg said.
The police said all 388 drivers appeared at various city courts on Saturday morning.
"Though all of those prosecuted last night appeared at a designated court on Saturday, most of them sought future dates for hearings," said Rajan Bhagat, spokesperson, Delhi Police.
FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE MOTOR VEHICLE ACT CAME INTO EFFECT IN 1988, ABOUT 484 DRIVERS WERE PROSECUTED ON THE FIRST DAY OF NEW YEAR. When it came to dealing with drunk drivers, the traffic policemen were gentlemen first and officers later.
Around 88 commuters whose vehicles were impounded for drunk driving on Friday night were sent home in auto-rickshaws and radio cabs specially arranged for them by the traffic police officers.
"The Motor Vehicle Act (1988), under which they were prosecuted, also states that an alternative mode of transport should be provided to inebriated drivers if they are not accompanied by a `sober' driver. So we arranged auto-rickshaws and cabs for them," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
For the first time since the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) came into effect in 1988, more than 484 drivers were prosecuted for various traffic offences by being directed to appear in court on Saturday morning, instead of being let-off after a minor fine ranging from R100R600 on New Year's eve.
"Most of these prosecutions -114 -took place in the southern range. Around 108 drivers were fined in the northern range, while the western range saw 80 drivers being prosecuted," said a senior traffic police officer.
He said about 45 prosecutions in central and 30-odd in east Delhi made up the smallest chunk of those booked for violations ranging from tinted glasses to defective number plates.
"A driver who was reeking of alcohol requested me to sit beside him as he drove to gauge his driving skills, while a Delhi University student who seemed to be heavily drunk begged us to let him go because he was afraid his mother would get angry," the officer said.
More than 3,000 drivers have been prosecuted for various offences since the MVA was more rigourously implemented in August till December, 2010. "Since August, more than 720 of those found violating traffic norms have been awarded jail terms and 580 have had their driving licences suspended. Most of the cases are yet to be decided at city courts," Garg said.
Original news source http://epaper.hindustantimes.com/PUBLICATIONS/HT/HD/2011/01/02/ArticleHtmls/Cops-play-gentlemen-Drunk-drivers-sent-home-in-02012011003003.shtml?Mode=1
The Delhi Police went hammer and tongs after drunk drivers on Friday night. For the first time ever, the traffic police summoned violators to court instead of just letting them off with a nominal R100 fine.
"We prosecuted 484 persons for various traffic offences last night. While 388 people were booked for drink driving, the remaining were prosecuted for offences such as violation of Supreme Court guidelines, tinted glasses and defective number plates," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
Garg said those apprehended for drunken driving were instructed to appear before courts, where they face the possibility of getting jail term besides having their licences suspended and being made to pay fines up to R2,000.
Also, this year, the traffic police booked twice the number of offenders as compared to 2009, when only 189 were challaned.
Owing to massive police deployment, Delhi roads remained fatal accident-free on New Year's eve. "We deployed around 500 traffic police motorcycles and 100-odd teams to check drink driving," Garg said.
The police said all 388 drivers appeared at various city courts on Saturday morning.
"Though all of those prosecuted last night appeared at a designated court on Saturday, most of them sought future dates for hearings," said Rajan Bhagat, spokesperson, Delhi Police.
FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE THE MOTOR VEHICLE ACT CAME INTO EFFECT IN 1988, ABOUT 484 DRIVERS WERE PROSECUTED ON THE FIRST DAY OF NEW YEAR. When it came to dealing with drunk drivers, the traffic policemen were gentlemen first and officers later.
Around 88 commuters whose vehicles were impounded for drunk driving on Friday night were sent home in auto-rickshaws and radio cabs specially arranged for them by the traffic police officers.
"The Motor Vehicle Act (1988), under which they were prosecuted, also states that an alternative mode of transport should be provided to inebriated drivers if they are not accompanied by a `sober' driver. So we arranged auto-rickshaws and cabs for them," said Satyendra Garg, joint commissioner of police (traffic).
For the first time since the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) came into effect in 1988, more than 484 drivers were prosecuted for various traffic offences by being directed to appear in court on Saturday morning, instead of being let-off after a minor fine ranging from R100R600 on New Year's eve.
"Most of these prosecutions -114 -took place in the southern range. Around 108 drivers were fined in the northern range, while the western range saw 80 drivers being prosecuted," said a senior traffic police officer.
He said about 45 prosecutions in central and 30-odd in east Delhi made up the smallest chunk of those booked for violations ranging from tinted glasses to defective number plates.
"A driver who was reeking of alcohol requested me to sit beside him as he drove to gauge his driving skills, while a Delhi University student who seemed to be heavily drunk begged us to let him go because he was afraid his mother would get angry," the officer said.
More than 3,000 drivers have been prosecuted for various offences since the MVA was more rigourously implemented in August till December, 2010. "Since August, more than 720 of those found violating traffic norms have been awarded jail terms and 580 have had their driving licences suspended. Most of the cases are yet to be decided at city courts," Garg said.
Original news source http://epaper.hindustantimes.com/PUBLICATIONS/HT/HD/2011/01/02/ArticleHtmls/Cops-play-gentlemen-Drunk-drivers-sent-home-in-02012011003003.shtml?Mode=1
Malls responsible for parked vehicles
Saturday, Jan 01, 2011
Parking is an integral part of a shopping mall and an essential facility. In the absence of this facility, malls would not be able to attract consumers at all in the first place. So much so that many retailers who do not have proper parking in front of their outlets offer valet parking to attract customers. So, it does not make sense for a shopping mall to levy a fee on car parking.
Yet, malls charge exorbitant amounts for the use of their parking bays. In fact, the parking fee goes up from Rs 30 on weekdays to Rs 50-R60 during weekends, when the demand is high.
This year, during Christmas, in many malls, car owners had to pay a whopping Rs 100 for parking.
This is sheer greed and whether it is Gurgaon or Delhi, the local administration has to step in and stop this kind of exploitation of consumers.
Consumers also need to send out a clear signal that they will not go to malls that impose such steep parking fees.
If the retailers in the mall want some business, then they will have to prevail upon the mall management to ensure that parking is free or the fee is kept at a reasonable amount.
Even the differential pricing based on demand (higher rates for weekends) has to be done away with. The traffic police too need to exert pressure on mall managements to keep the parking fee at a minimum, as otherwise, vehicle owners tend to park vehicles on the roadside, there by obstructing the free flow of traffic on roads around the malls.
In Pune, for the very same reason, the traffic police had sent out a proposal last year, suggesting that parking be made free at shopping malls.
Pradeep Kumar: Despite charging a steep fee, underground parking lots in malls put out boards saying that parking is at owner' s risk.
What happens if a car parked there is lost or damaged? Are they not expected to compensate the car owner? What can a car owner do in such cases?
Answer: Such a notice does not offer any protection to the parking lot contractor, nor does it allow him to escape liability for any loss caused to the car owner.
So, if a vehicle is stolen or even damaged and those managing the parking area are unwilling to make good the loss, then one can always go to the consumer court for relief. However, it is important to keep the parking receipt safe.
In a number of cases, consumers have got compensation from consumer courts for the theft of vehicles parked in manned parking lots.
In the case of Mahesh Enterprises vs Arun Kumar Gamber, for example, the airport authority and the parking lot contractor at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport argued they cannot be held liable for the theft of a vehicle from the parking area.
However, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission disagreed and ordered the parking contractor to compensate the consumer.
Then, in August 2008, the apex consumer court considered the question of whether a five-star hotel that provided free parking and valet service to its guests was liable for the loss of vehicles from its parking lot.
Its decision, directing the hotel to pay R2 lakh, along with 10% interest, further consolidates the rights of consumers vis-à-vis parking lots (Hotel Hyatt Regency Vs Mr Atul Virmani).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Malls-responsible-for-parked-vehicles/Article1-645429.aspx
Parking is an integral part of a shopping mall and an essential facility. In the absence of this facility, malls would not be able to attract consumers at all in the first place. So much so that many retailers who do not have proper parking in front of their outlets offer valet parking to attract customers. So, it does not make sense for a shopping mall to levy a fee on car parking.
Yet, malls charge exorbitant amounts for the use of their parking bays. In fact, the parking fee goes up from Rs 30 on weekdays to Rs 50-R60 during weekends, when the demand is high.
This year, during Christmas, in many malls, car owners had to pay a whopping Rs 100 for parking.
This is sheer greed and whether it is Gurgaon or Delhi, the local administration has to step in and stop this kind of exploitation of consumers.
Consumers also need to send out a clear signal that they will not go to malls that impose such steep parking fees.
If the retailers in the mall want some business, then they will have to prevail upon the mall management to ensure that parking is free or the fee is kept at a reasonable amount.
Even the differential pricing based on demand (higher rates for weekends) has to be done away with. The traffic police too need to exert pressure on mall managements to keep the parking fee at a minimum, as otherwise, vehicle owners tend to park vehicles on the roadside, there by obstructing the free flow of traffic on roads around the malls.
In Pune, for the very same reason, the traffic police had sent out a proposal last year, suggesting that parking be made free at shopping malls.
Pradeep Kumar: Despite charging a steep fee, underground parking lots in malls put out boards saying that parking is at owner' s risk.
What happens if a car parked there is lost or damaged? Are they not expected to compensate the car owner? What can a car owner do in such cases?
Answer: Such a notice does not offer any protection to the parking lot contractor, nor does it allow him to escape liability for any loss caused to the car owner.
So, if a vehicle is stolen or even damaged and those managing the parking area are unwilling to make good the loss, then one can always go to the consumer court for relief. However, it is important to keep the parking receipt safe.
In a number of cases, consumers have got compensation from consumer courts for the theft of vehicles parked in manned parking lots.
In the case of Mahesh Enterprises vs Arun Kumar Gamber, for example, the airport authority and the parking lot contractor at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport argued they cannot be held liable for the theft of a vehicle from the parking area.
However, the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission disagreed and ordered the parking contractor to compensate the consumer.
Then, in August 2008, the apex consumer court considered the question of whether a five-star hotel that provided free parking and valet service to its guests was liable for the loss of vehicles from its parking lot.
Its decision, directing the hotel to pay R2 lakh, along with 10% interest, further consolidates the rights of consumers vis-à-vis parking lots (Hotel Hyatt Regency Vs Mr Atul Virmani).
Original news source http://www.hindustantimes.com/Malls-responsible-for-parked-vehicles/Article1-645429.aspx
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