Guj HC expresses concern over wrong-side driving by two-wheelers, orders survey in Ahmedabad

A division bench of the Gujarat High Court, comprising Justices A S Supehia and L S Pirzada, expressed alarm over persistent traffic violations by two-wheeler riders in Ahmedabad during hearing of a contempt plea regarding non-compliance with a 2017 Public Interest Litigation (PIL) order on traffic management and illegal parking.

Justice Supehia noted a reduction in wrong-side driving by four-wheelers but highlighted that two-wheelers continue to flout rules, including frequent traffic signal violations. In 180 seconds, I personally observed seven violations by two-wheelers at a single signal, he remarked, adding that camouflaged number plates hinder enforcement by Traffic Brigade personnel. The court raised concerns about the widespread nature of such violations across the city.

The high court directed the Gujarat State Legal Services Authority to conduct a survey and submit a report on illegal parking and wrong-lane driving on key Ahmedabad roads, including S G Highway, C G Road, Judges Bungalow Road, the stretch from Navrangpura crossroads to Gujarat High Court complex, and the road from Vadaj Circle to Dilli Darwaza (Dudheshwar Road).

The survey, focusing on parking violations near shopping centres, restaurants, and party plots, is scheduled to take place between October 29 and November 7, after Diwali. The report will be shared with advocates representing the parties involved, with the matter set for further hearing on November 12.

The advocate appearing for the state submitted before the court that authorities are actively addressing traffic violations, we are planning similar measures for Diwali to target wrong-side driving and enhance overall road sensibility.

He cited the recent Filmfare Awards in Ahmedabad, noting that vehicles dispersed within 8-10 minutes after the event ended at 2 am, indicating reduced congestion. He also said that vehicle detentions have led to improved road discipline, particularly during Navratri.

Senior advocate and amicus curiae argued that traffic rules violations must be punished heavily under MV Act. The traffic conditions in the city have worsened despite earlier court orders.

The respondents are in contempt for failing to comply with court orders. The court, observing tensions among the parties, noted in its order that ‘unwanted altercations’ frequently arise during hearings, disrupting discussions on the court’s directives.