Malerkotla, September 17:
Under the directions of SSP Malerkotla Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh, the Traffic Police has launched a special campaign to streamline the city’s traffic system and give residents relief from persistent traffic congestion.
As part of the drive, Traffic In-charge Harbhajan Singh sensitised street vendors operating on the main road near Gurdwara Sahib, directing them to set up their carts at a suitable distance behind the footpath instead of along the roadside, so that vehicular movement as well as the passage of pedestrians — including children, the elderly and women — is not obstructed.
Vendors were also told to ensure that customers’ vehicles are not parked on the main road, but directed instead to the ground located behind the market. This, officials said, would ease unnecessary congestion and keep traffic flowing smoothly.
SSP Harkamalpreet Singh Khakh appealed to city residents, shopkeepers and vendors to voluntarily clear illegal encroachments from roads and public places and extend full cooperation to the police administration. “This city belongs to all of us, and keeping its roads safe and orderly is our collective responsibility,” he said.
He made it clear that the police have no intention of affecting anyone’s livelihood or business, and that the drive is aimed solely at safeguarding citizens’ right to safe passage alongside people’s means of earning. Even a small measure of public cooperation, he said, could bring the city significant relief from traffic snarls.
Police said that in the first phase, the public is being sensitised and urged to cooperate voluntarily. However, those who continue to violate the directions and obstruct traffic by placing carts, goods or vehicles on the road will face challan action as per rules.