Gujarat HC questions entry of banned heavy vehicles into Ahmedabad city

During a hearing on a contempt petition concerning issues such as stray cattle menace, dilapidated roads, illegal encroachments on public roads and footpaths, and traffic-related problems including unauthorised parking, the Gujarat High Court expressed dissatisfaction with the police and authorities about the presence of heavy vehicles on restricted city roads during peak hours. The court directed the state government to make enforcement stricter and more effective.

A division bench of Justice A S Supehia and Justice R T Vachchani strongly questioned the state and concerned authorities on the illegal entry of luxury buses and other heavy vehicles into the city, as well as the rampant and unauthorised parking on public roads. 

The court asked, “If heavy vehicles are banned from entering the city without permits, why are they still seen on city roads, especially during peak hours, causing traffic congestion?”

During the hearing, the high court also raised a crucial concern — to what extent should the court intervene in such matters? The bench indirectly indicated that the responsibility lies with the government and authorities to act diligently and sensibly to achieve effective, result-oriented outcomes. It also suggested that reputed institutions like IIM and ISRO could be involved to help resolve traffic issues.

The judges even cited their personal experiences, noting that heavy vehicles are still visible on S P Ring Road during peak hours, despite previous instructions to restrict their entry. 

The court remarked that even though police officers were present on the Ring Road, they failed to act against vehicles entering without the necessary passes or permits. The judges criticised the lack of enforcement and said unless the accountability of police officers is fixed, these problems will persist.

In response, the government lawyer assured the court that action will be taken based on the court’s observations.

The HC also severely criticised the state government over illegal encroachments and unauthorized parking on roads leading from the main highways into the city, which the court said blocks nearly 50% of the road space. Citing recent news reports about traffic gridlocks in Bopal, the court questioned both the government and the police.

The government responded that attention had been recently focused on Stadium Road and CG Road, and that in the coming days, Bopal and Ghuma areas will also be prioritised. The state submitted data regarding action taken against wrong-side driving, stating that 27 vehicles had been seized in the past week.

The court-appointed assistant also suggested that unless the authorities use modern technology, expert assistance, and work in coordination, no effective solution will emerge for these pressing urban issues.