Hearing a public interest litigation (PIL) opposing the proposed flyover in Ahmedabad from Panjrapole to IIM, traffic issues, and rising accidents, the Gujarat High Court today directed the state government to take severe measures against traffic rule violators in Ahmedabad.

The court emphasised that simply raising awareness is insufficient , stringent actions must be taken against those who violate traffic rules and fail to wear helmets.

Court’s critique on traffic management

Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice Pranav Trivedi of the high court criticised the current state of traffic management, stating that people are recklessly endangering their own lives but must not endanger others. It noted that issuing fines alone will not bring about improvement. The court recommended taking preventive measures against such individuals and suspending their licences.

Government’s assurance, court’s frustration

Following the court’s suggestions, the state government assured that it would suspend the licences of traffic rule violators. The court expressed frustration over the lack of enforcement of helmet regulations for two-wheeler riders, despite prior directives. 

The high court expressed their displeasure over the lack of visible improvements, stating that although some issues take time to resolve, no progress has been observed. The court observed that no two-wheeler riders were seen wearing helmets, and directed the state government to outline the measures taken in compliance with the court’s orders.

Court's recommendations for traffic management

The court suggested leveraging technology to enforce traffic rules more effectively and ordered a project report on electronic ticketing. It recommended suspending the licences of those violating traffic rules for fifteen days to a month, arguing that this would serve as a sufficient deterrent and prevent repeat offences.

Senior Advocate Mihirbhai Thakor, representing the petitioner, suggested impounding the vehicles of repeat offenders.

Court’s stern stance on illegal parking and wrong-side driving

The High Court took a stern view of illegal parking and wrong-side driving, stating that it is time to act against such offenders. It noted that people seem to derive pleasure from driving on the wrong side and stressed that cases of electronic ticketing are pending, with a separate magistrate's court handling them. The court suggested that for traffic violations, licences should be suspended for up to twenty days.

Immediate Actions to be taken by Government

The High Court directed the government to:

1. Ensure strict adherence to traffic rules and legal provisions in the city.

2. Seek expert advice for appropriate urban planning.

3. Fill vacant positions in the police department promptly.

4. Plan for the city’s development not just for the next 5-10 years, but for the next 50 years.

5. Utilise technology for the prompt and effective implementation of traffic rules.

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HC slams AMC, traffic police for persistent management failures