Congestion eased, claim police, but motorists groping

Congestion eased, claim police, but motorists groping
New Indian Express

BANGALORE: While traffic police claim the new parallel parking system has dramatically eased traffic congestion on the roads, most motorists are not aware of how the system works.

Harish, a motorist says: ‘‘Traffic men are only trying to make money. I am new to the city and I do not know anything about parallel parking. When I saw someone parking his car beside another one, I did the same. Instead of explaining to me that I was wrong, they booked me for violation. This is ridiculous,’’ he said.

There are many like Harish who have been caught unawares. They say that neither the BCC nor the traffic police have taken steps like putting up boards that inform them about the parallel parking system.

The new system’s biggest problem still seems to be the exercise of squeezing the car into a vacant slot between two others without damaging any.

Traffic police say soon markings will be drawn and the problem would be tackled. The system is also facing resistance from traders who are complaining about dip in business.

But the BCC and the police are firm about persisting with the system. Officials say roads are strictly meant for traffic and not for parking.

DCP Traffic (East), M.A. Saleem said: ‘‘Vehicle density is increasing alarmingly. This step was taken to ease congestion on Bangalore roads. There has been a change since the system was enforced. Traffic flow is smooth.’’

However, officials also agree that there are a few problems with the system.

‘‘Double parking does exist. We are taking steps to see that this problem is avoided. The system applies to the entire city and not just one or two streets. There are violators and we will continue to book them,’’ said a traffic constable on MG Road.