Patna, December 9, 2024, Vikas Kumar Ojha: In a comprehensive review meeting conducted at the Commissioner’s office in Patna, Divisional Commissioner Mayank Varvade focused on the need to strengthen traffic management systems and enhance CCTV-based surveillance across Patna. He directed officials to launch special drives against encroachments and ensure strict adherence to traffic rules through inter-departmental coordination.
The Commissioner said the government wanted a sensitive and efficient system for citizens. “Patna, being a critical urban hub, needs advanced traffic management technologies to address issues like congestion and accidents,” he said. “Effective traffic systems impact our work and lifestyles significantly,” he noted.
Key Directives Issued:
The Commissioner instructed officials, including the District Magistrate of Patna, Senior Police Superintendent, and Municipal Commissioner, to undertake special operations against encroachments. Such operations should involve public announcements through public address systems before action is taken, complete videography of the process, and monitoring by drones.
Surveillance and Enforcement Measures:
Varvade pointed out that the surveillance system needed to be strengthened by installing and maintaining functional CCTV cameras. Patna Smart City Limited has already installed over 3,300 surveillance cameras across 415 locations which include Red Light Violation Detection (RLVD) cameras, Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, and Speed Violation Detection (SVD) systems. These technologies are expected to ensure compliance with traffic rules and deter violations effectively.
Countering Encroachment and Public Nuisance:
The Commissioner ordered officials to trace and demolish unauthorized structures, accompanied by police and magistrates. He ensured that all operations should be legal, and follow-up teams must avoid re-encroachment. Individuals causing nuisance in the process must be dealt with in courts.
Discussion Summary:
The discussion covered critical points on traffic management, among them:
- Nehru Path, Saguna Mor, and other heavy traffic areas.
- Parking zones, signage, and implementation of “No Parking” areas.
- ITMS for monitoring and managing traffic in a better way.
Long-term Approach:
Agreeing to the rising vehicle population and growing congestion, the Commissioner emphasized that it should be planned in the long term. This includes:
- Foot overbridges.
- Adaptive traffic control systems
Dedicated vending and parking zones
Patna Gateway to Eastern India
“Patna is the gateway to eastern and northeastern India,” said Varvade. “Superior traffic systems here will not only help ensure safety but also support economic growth and improve standards of living.”
Four Pillars of ITMS
The Commissioner mentioned the four major aspects of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS): - Safety.
- Disciplined traffic.
- Citizen-centric services.
- Strong connectivity.
Role of Advanced Technology:
He added that with the help of the modern technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information Technology (IT), traffic management, public safety, and law enforcement could be improved drastically.
The meeting ended with a sharp instruction to all departments to work in coordination and speed up the process of implementing traffic reforms and removing encroachments.
