To ease traffic flow, Panipat to implement odd-even rule from tomorrow

In a major push to tackle the growing traffic chaos in the city, the Panipat district administration has decided to implement an ‘odd-even vehicle formula’ and close all city markets on Mondays. The entry of commercial tractors into city limits would also be banned, officials announced during a high-level meeting on traffic and road safety.

The decisions were taken during a meeting of the ‘District Road Safety and Surakshit School Vahan Policy’, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Dr Virender Kumar Dahiya, Superintendent of Police Bhupender Singh and Panipat City MLA Pramod Vij.

Dr Dahiya stated to enhance security and streamline urban traffic, CCTV cameras would be installed at 20 strategic locations across the city. Additionally, iron grills will be placed at accident-prone spots identified by police to reduce mishaps.

The Deputy Commissioner also ordered the early completion of underpass construction and widening of service lanes along National Highway-44 (NH-44). He reiterated a strict ban on commercial tractor entry and announced action against vehicles contributing to air pollution.

To regulate informal transport, the DC said that ‘rehri’ (cart) owners must get registered and strict action will be taken against unregistered operators.

MLA Pramod Vij noted that the administration is working in tandem to streamline the traffic and market systems in Panipat, popularly known as the ‘Textile City’. He announced the development of designated e-rickshaw stands at Devi Temple Chowk, under the L&T flyover and in Sukhdev Nagar.

Vij added vehicular entry in market areas would be banned from 8 am to 10 pm and this proposal has already been discussed with administrative officials. There are also plans to implement a system of automatic challans using iron barriers and surveillance cameras to enforce traffic rules.

The MLA said a consensus was reached on limiting the number of three-wheelers, including auto-rickshaws and e-rickshaws, by applying the odd-even rule to them as well.

Additionally, a discussion was organised on opening the road near Samvidhan Chowk, located at the NH-44 red light, to further improve traffic circulation in the city.

These combined efforts aim to decongest traffic, enhance road safety and beautify Panipat, positioning the city for a more sustainable and organised urban future.