Shadow Correspondent
Doda, Mar, 12
A crucial meeting to discuss traffic management plan was today chaired by District Magistrate Harvinder Singh here in the meeting Hall of his office.
The meeting was attended by SSP Sandeep Kumar Mehta; SSP Traffic (National Highway Ramban-Doda-Kishtwar) Rohit Basgotra; ACR Sunil Bhutyal; DySP Traffic Sarabjeet Singh; ARTO Sheetal Sharma; Executive Engineers from NHIDCL and PWD (R&B), General Manager NHIDCL, Executive Officers from Doda, Bhaderwah, and Thathri, along with representatives from transport and market associations. The discussions primarily focused on easing traffic congestion, ensuring smooth vehicular movement, and addressing critical road safety concerns across the district. The bottlenecks in traffic management were identified, including illegal parking, unregulated movement of auto-rickshaws and electric rickshaws, and non-compliance with prescribed fares by public transport operators. The DC directed the ARTO and transport authorities to ensure that all passenger vehicles prominently display details about the driver and permit information within a week. It was also decided that a proper schedule chart for passenger vehicles would be displayed at key locations for public awareness. Additionally, the SSP Traffic emphasized the need for strict enforcement of road safety measures and urged the transport associations to follow scheduled movement guidelines. The DC instructed the Executive Officers of municipal committees to coordinate with market associations for designated parking spaces to prevent encroachments, while the SDMs of Assar and Gandoh were tasked with implementing similar measures in their respective areas.
A major concern raised during the meeting was traffic congestion in the downtown area, exacerbated by the dumping of construction and waste materials. The DC directed the Executive Officer Municipal Committee to ensure that no unauthorized dumping occurs in the town and to identify suitable dumping locations outside congested areas. Additionally, the ARTO and DySP Traffic were instructed to enforce strict differentiation between state and contract vehicles, ensuring compliance with permit regulations.
A special committee headed by the ADC, along with ARTO, traffic officials, and municipal representatives, was formed to streamline the movement of auto-rickshaws, metadors, and public vehicles. The DC further emphasized that no private vehicles should be used for passenger transport and that all commercial vehicles should operate strictly within their designated routes and permits.
The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to improving traffic discipline and road safety in Doda. The DC directed all stakeholders to implement the decisions effectively and scheduled regular follow-ups to assess progress. The administration assured full cooperation in ensuring smooth traffic management and a safer commuting experience for residents.
