No-tolerance zones, infra upgrades key to traffic management

Traffic cops should show no leniency

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Ludhiana’s traffic situation is deteriorating rapidly, particularly during peak hours. As a result, the authorities concerned have launched a “no-tolerance zone” initiative, to crack down on infractions with zero leniency. It is a positive step towards improving traffic flow in Ludhiana by tackling critical concerns such as unlawful parking and encroachment. However, success requires constant enforcement, infrastructure improvements and public cooperation. While initial results are encouraging, persistent violations and resource constraints underscore the necessity for sustained efforts and broader urban planning solutions to properly address traffic concerns. To minimise congestion, we must first extend road networks, create designated lanes for two-wheelers and improve traffic signal synchronisation. Footpaths and proper zebra crossings will ensure pedestrian safety, which is often ignored amid chaotic traffic. Lastly, awareness campaigns in schools and communities should promote traffic discipline and road safety. Ludhiana can only move forward if all stakeholders—both authorities concerned and citizens —commit to making the city’s roads safer, cleaner and more efficient for everyone.

Novin Christopher

Relocate traffic hubs to city outskirts

To address traffic congestion in Ludhiana, a multi-pronged approach is needed, including improved infrastructure, better traffic management and public awareness. This involves widening roads, implementing intelligent traffic management systems, promoting public transportation and carpooling and identifying and addressing bottlenecks by widening roads. High-traffic hubs like the Inter-State Bus Terminal, Transport Nagar and grain markets should be relocated to the city’s outskirts. Road markings, lane guidance and signage should be improved to ensure clear and safe traffic flow. Designated parking zones should be made and roadside parking discouraged. Smart traffic lights and real-time traffic monitoring should be implemented to optimise traffic flow. A dedicated emergency response system should be utilised with clear zones and designated teams to handle incidents efficiently. Police presence should be increased, and stricter penalties for violations imposed. Citizens must be educated about traffic rules, the importance of lane discipline and the benefits of alternative transport. Detailed traffic diversion plans should be developed during construction projects to minimise disruptions in traffic flow. Carpooling should be promoted and public transport system improved. Cycling and walking should be encouraged by creating dedicated lanes and improving pedestrian infrastructure. The authorities concerned should establish channels for citizen feedback and suggestions regarding traffic management.

Sukhdev Sharma

Admn should crack down on offenders

Ludhiana’s traffic situation has become increasingly chaotic due to the rising number of vehicle, careless driving and a lack of enforcement. The recently launched “no-tolerance zone” initiative by the police is a welcome step, but to see real impact, it must be expanded citywide with strict and consistent implementation. Traffic violations such as jumping signals, wrong-side driving, helmetless riding and illegal parking must be penalised on the spot using CCTV surveillance and mobile traffic units. At the same time, public awareness campaigns in schools, colleges and marketplaces can help educate citizens about road safety, pedestrian rights and the importance of following traffic rules. Additionally, the city’s road infrastructure needs major improvements—proper signage, clear lane markings, working traffic lights and pedestrian crossings must be ensured. Encroachments by street vendors and illegal parking on main roads should be cleared regularly to maintain a smooth flow of traffic. The presence of traffic police must be increased, especially during peak hours, to control congestion and guide drivers. Lastly, encouraging the use of public transport and e-rickshaws will help reduce the number of vehicles on roads.

Parmeet Kaur

Build sustainable transport systems

Ludhiana is grappling with severe traffic congestion and rampant traffic violations. As adherence to fundamental road safety regulations is crucial to addressing these complexities, the Ludhiana police chief has declared some roads in the city as “no-tolerance zones” for smooth traffic flow. These routes will witness strict enforcement of traffic norms and serve as model roads with zero tolerance for any violations. The rapidly rising vehicular density needs to be checked by developing sustainable transport systems like bus rapid transport (BRT), metro service, cycle lanes, pedestrian walkways etc. The administration should enforce stricter rules on traffic light signals, create adequate number of parking spaces and introduce speed limits to streamline the flow of traffic. Carpooling should be encouraged to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. The extension of shop and commercial activity onto roads and streets should be checked. The e-challan system should be implemented on all roads of the city. People should refrain from speeding and driving drunk. Violators should be fined and/or imprisoned.

RS SEMBHI

Create special zones for street vendors

There are two effective solutions for improving Ludhiana’s traffic situation. First, encourage the use of public transportation by increasing its regularity, coverage and cleanliness. This will minimise the number of private vehicles on the road, hence alleviating congestion. Second, create and enforce specified zones for street sellers, particularly those near markets and junctions. Their unregulated presence frequently narrows roads and creates traffic jams. Along with this, awareness efforts about road safety and responsible driving can serve to modify residents’ perceptions of traffic rules.

Tamanpreet Kaur Khangura

More traffic lights should be installed

The traffic situation in Ludhiana is worsening by the day. In order to improve it, major transformations have to be made. Firstly, traffic lights should be installed at every roundabout and those already present should be maintained. Traffic police officials should be deployed in busy areas. Flyovers and roads should be constructed and maintained properly to avoid unnecessary congestion. Strict parking rules should be implemented to prevent roadside parking. Public transport and carpooling should be promoted. Most importantly, awareness should be spread related to proper traffic sense among residents so that they abide by rules.

Anshpreet Kaur

Multi-pronged approach required

Traffic congestion in Ludhiana is a persistent issue, stemming from a combination of factors. Increasing vehicle numbers, inadequate road infrastructure and poor traffic management contribute to frequent jams, especially during peak hours. Rush hour, accidents and roadwork further exacerbate the problem, causing delays and frustration for commuters. This not only leads to a waste of commuters’ time but also leads to an increased fuel consumption, air pollution and reduced productivity among individuals. Addressing this requires a multi-pronged approach, including improved public transportation, promotion of carpooling, optimised traffic signal timing and better road design. Stricter enforcement of traffic rules and public awareness campaigns are also crucial to mitigate the problem.

Manpreet Kaur

Spread awareness through drives

Day by day, the condition of traffic on the city’s roads is worsening. People break signals, drive on the wrong side and park vehicles wherever they find space. This leads to traffic jams and accidents. I appreciate the “no-tolerance zone” initiative launched by the police. However, to see real change, rules must be strictly enforced every day, not just for a few weeks. There should also be awareness drives to educate people about road safety. Moreover, improving public transport can reduce private vehicles on the road. Proper parking arrangements and better management of peak traffic hours are also needed. It is important for both the authorities concerned and the public to work together to make Ludhiana’s roads safer and less stressful.

Harneet Kaur

Improve public infrastructure

The traffic situation in Ludhiana is becoming increasingly chaotic, especially during peak hours. The recent “no-tolerance zone” initiative launched by the police is a commendable step, but more comprehensive actions are needed to tackle the root causes. First, stricter enforcement of traffic rules must be accompanied by public awareness campaigns. People must understand that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Second, better road infrastructure, including widened roads, proper signage and functioning traffic lights, is essential. Third, promoting public transport and discouraging the use of private vehicles use can significantly reduce congestion. Lastly, encroachments on roads by vendors and illegal parking must be cleared regularly. Only a multi-pronged approach, combining law enforcement, infrastructure development and civic responsibility, can bring lasting improvement. The city needs discipline on the roads, and both the authorities concerned and citizens must work together to make Ludhiana safer and more organised.

Navneet Singh

Introduce ‘even-odd policy’ in city

Ludhiana is the largest industrial city in the state, where the increasing population and number of vehicles have made traffic a serious problem. To overcome this issue, it is very important to implement new and strict traffic rules. Like Delhi, the “even-odd policy” can also be implemented here, under which vehicles with even-numbered license plates will run only on even dates and the odd-numbered ones on odd dates. This policy can help reduce traffic and protect the environment. Entry of heavy vehicles should be restricted in the city during the day, and strict parking rules should be enforced. Smart traffic lights, CCTV cameras and strict checking of helmets and seat belts are also necessary. The use of public transport should be encouraged, and awareness should be spread among people. These combined steps can help make Ludhiana cleaner, more organised and safer. The success of these rules depends on the cooperation of the public, authorities and responsible driving by residents.

Ishpreet Kaur

Install more CCTV cameras

Ludhiana’s traffic situation is becoming increasingly chaotic, with rising congestion, frequent violations and unsafe road conditions. While the police’s “no-tolerance zone” initiative is a welcome step, more comprehensive action is needed to create lasting change. Firstly, stricter enforcement of traffic laws is essential, especially against wrong-side driving, speeding and illegal parking. Installation of more CCTV cameras and traffic signals in busy zones can deter violations. Secondly, road infrastructure must be improved—wider roads, better signage, and proper pedestrian crossings will ensure smoother flow. Additionally, public awareness campaigns about road safety and discipline can change people’s mind-set. Promoting public transport and discouraging unnecessary use of personal vehicles will also help reduce congestion. With a combined effort from the authorities concerned and citizens, Ludhiana can regain safe and efficient roads.

Charankamal Kaur

Cops, residents must work in tandem

Traffic these days has become a major problem in the city. Beyond consuming precious hours, prolonged exposure to vehicular emissions poses significant health risks, while accident rates continue to rise. As Punjab’s industrial hub, Ludhiana’s expanding population and vehicle count demand urgent intervention. To curb this, urgent corrective action is required. The introduction of a “no-tolerance zones” by the traffic police to strictly curb violations of traffic rules is also an initiative taken in this regard. Firstly, the infrastructure of the city needs to be managed well. Secondly, there need to be stricter rules for parking, as it’s commonly seen that wrong parking worsens the traffic situation. Areas with busy markets, especially need urgent regulation. Thirdly CCTV surveillance and automated challans should be enforced. Also, public awareness campaigns should be launched. Likewise, public transport facilities should be improved.

Tanveen Kaur

Widen city roads for better traffic flow

Ludhiana’s traffic has become increasingly chaotic due to overpopulation, poor road discipline and a lack of strict enforcement. The “no-tolerance zone” initiative launched by the police is a good step, but more efforts are required for lasting change. First, awareness campaigns should be conducted to educate people about traffic rules and road safety. Secondly, the use of public transport must be encouraged by improving its availability and reliability. Strict action should be taken against offenders, especially those who drive on the wrong side, park illegally or ignore signals. Moreover, traffic signals and CCTV cameras must be installed and actively monitored in busy areas. The roads should be widened where possible and encroachments should be removed. School and college students can also be involved in awareness drives. With cooperation from citizens and strict action from authorities concerned, Ludhiana’s traffic situation can definitely improve. Discipline and awareness are the real solutions.

Khushdeep Kaur

Punish residents for illegal parking

Ludhiana’s traffic problems are increasing daily due to careless driving, encroachments and lack of discipline among commuters. The recent “no-tolerance zone” initiative launched by the police is a positive step, but more measures are needed to bring lasting change. Firstly, stricter enforcement of traffic rules with heavy fines should continue. Secondly, awareness campaigns must be conducted in schools, colleges and public places to educate citizens about road safety. Thirdly, illegal parking and roadside encroachments must be removed to ensure smoother flow of traffic. Public transport should also be improved and encouraged to reduce the number of private vehicles on roads. Lastly, installing more CCTV cameras and traffic signals at busy intersections will help regulate traffic better. If the authorities concerned and citizens work together responsibly, Ludhiana can overcome its growing traffic issues.

Prabhjot Kaur

Mark special lanes for two-wheelers

Traffic is a major issue nowadays. The city police have launched “no-tolerance zones” but there should be stricter laws. Firstly, people should use cycle or prefer non-motorised transport or walk. Poor road conditions must be addressed to ensure a smooth traffic flow. It is not just the police’s duty to ensure traffic clearance, people should organise campaigns and informative workshops to spread awareness about these issues. Standard measures must be decided (penalty, licence cancellations etc). Dedicated lanes for two-wheelers should be marked. Industries and business institutions must be encouraged to follow alternative timings to reduce traffic during peak hours. Lastly, the use of smart traffic management systems and mobile apps for real-time traffic updates can help commuters plan better. These steps together can lead to a safer and smoother traffic system in Ludhiana.

Puneetpal Kaur

Strict enforcement of laws needed

Ludhiana’s traffic problems are increasing daily due to careless driving, encroachments and a lack of discipline among commuters. The recent “no-tolerance zone” initiative launched by the police is a positive step, but more measures are needed to bring lasting change. Firstly, stricter enforcement of traffic rules with heavy fines should continue. Secondly, awareness campaigns must be conducted in schools, colleges and public places to educate citizens about road safety. Thirdly, illegal parking must be removed to ensure smoother flow of traffic. Public transport should also be improved and encourage to the number of private vehicles on roads. If both authorities and citizens work together with mutual understanding, Ludhiana can overcome its growing traffic issues.

Prabhjot Kaur

Use AI to optimise traffic light timings

Improving city traffic requires a combination of infrastructure upgrades, policy changes and technology integration. Here are some important suggestions that the local administration must adopt to ease the problem: increase metro, bus and tram networks with better frequency and coverage. Special attention must be paid to reduce bus delays to encourage the use of public transport. Local administration must offer multi-modal passes (bus, bike-sharing) for seamless travel. It must use sensors and AI to optimise traffic light timings. Use of apps and digital signs to guide drivers away from congestion should be available. The local administration must charge fees for driving in high-traffic zones during peak hours. There must be safe, connected cycling/walking paths to reduce dependency on cars. The provision of bike & e-scooter sharing should be made available at affordable prices. The authorities concerned must widen key roads, flyovers and underpasses where needed. There must be provisions of priority lanes or tax benefits for shared rides.

Dr Mohd Saleem Farooqui

Make signboards more visible

Ludhiana’s traffic problems are worsening each day due to increasing vehicle density, lack of discipline and poor infrastructure. The “no-tolerance zone” initiative by the police is a commendable step, but more comprehensive measures are needed to bring lasting change. Firstly, strict enforcement of traffic rules must be ensured through the use of CCTVs and on-the-spot fines. Secondly, better public transportation options should be introduced to reduce dependence on private vehicles. Thirdly, regular awareness drives should be held in schools and colleges to educate the public about traffic discipline. Furthermore, road infrastructure must be improved by creating proper lanes, footpaths and parking areas. Lastly, traffic signals and signboards should be made more visible and functional. Only through a combination of law enforcement, public cooperation and infrastructure development can Ludhiana’s traffic woes be effectively addressed.

Jagmeet Singh

Congested roads lead to traffic chaos

Imagine a mother losing her son due to a road accident. In 2024, Ludhiana saw 376 fatalities in 483 road accidents. The primary causes were speeding, reckless driving and congested roads. The reason for increasing traffic in Ludhiana is that the roads are narrow. The traffic congestion also adds to the rising noise pollution. Traffic police are present on the roads, but people often ignore them while driving. Another reason for the problem is people parking their vehicles in the wrong places. Residents must be made aware that following traffic rules is for their own good. Traffic police should install cameras everywhere and fine offenders.

Prabhjot Kaur

Adopt smart traffic management tech

Ludhiana has been facing the issue of congestion on roads since a long time. To take resolve this issue, the city must promote walking and cycling for short distances. Creating shaded walkways, safe zebra crossings and cycle lanes will encourage people to leave vehicles behind for nearby destinations. Most importantly, Ludhiana must adopt smart traffic technologies like real-time AI traffic signals, automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) cameras for violations and a mobile app that suggests less congested routes and public transport options.

Navneet Singh

Increase parking fee across city

To curb traffic woes in the city, the local authorities must increase parking fees and limit downtown parking to discourage driving. Use of vehicle restrictions in the form of odd-even schemes or bans on high-emission vehicles should be implemented. Long commutes must be reduced by integrating homes, offices and shops. Local authorities must build housing/commercial areas near transit hubs. Offices and establishments must encourage remote work, flexible hours and staggered office hours to spread out traffic peaks. Provision must be made to use technology and data through apps for smart parking which may help drivers to find parking faster to reduce circling. There must be stricter penalties for illegal parking and lane violations and citizens must be educate on the benefits of public transport.

Farzana Khan

Crack down on speeding vehicles

The traffic situation in Ludhiana city is very bad and needs great improvement. The number of vehicles on the roads at any one time in the day, especially in the evening hours when people come for shopping, is uncountable. There is hardly any way to keep a check on the number of vehicles in the city. Families must not own more vehicles than the number of members and dealerships must keep a watch on this. As the density of vehicles in the city is high, these are parked everywhere leaving very little space. The vehicles on the roads run at a very high speed, as a result of which there are many accidents resulting in the loss of valuable lives. The local police must crack down on speeding vehicles.

Gautam Dev