As Guwahati undergoes a transformation into a modern city, its night-time traffic policing remains alarmingly inadequate, putting lives at risk. After 11 PM, the streets are devoid of uniformed traffic officials, creating dangerous conditions where rules are ignored, and safety is compromised. Despite a rise in vehicles and a vibrant nightlife across areas like GS Road and Khanapara, Guwahati’s traffic management feels stuck in the past.
Although substantial investments have been made in the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), reports indicate that the system malfunctions or resets beyond a certain hour. As a result, intersections that are already tricky during the day become chaotic at night due to the absence of functional traffic signals and police presence. Residents, particularly those returning home late, describe this as a “traffic vacuum.” They note a stark contrast in the enforcement of regulations, with night-time roads turning unpredictable and hazardous-not through congestion, but through lawlessness.
An incident in Hatigaon highlights the grave situation. A security guard recounted a serious accident where, although a patrolling vehicle arrived promptly, the traffic division did not respond in time to assist the injured. Questions linger on the response time of emergency services, leaving families distressed over avoidable tragedies.
Social media is rife with testimonies of near-misses and delayed responses at night, illustrating a persistent lack of traffic regulation. A senior traffic official noted that police presence is reduced late at night because they believe traffic diminishes. This perspective disregards the changing dynamics of nightlife and the various individuals on the roads after dark, including healthcare, hospitality, delivery workers, and students, all facing heightened risks.
The reliance on patrol vehicles, which lack the authority and training to manage traffic effectively, exacerbates the issue. Their limitations become evident in emergencies that require decisive action. The ITMS, intended to optimize traffic flow, falters at night, with signals either malfunctioning or operating in caution mode. This not only causes confusion but also endangers motorists, particularly at busy intersections.
As highlighted by a civil engineer, the strategy of discontinuing traffic management after certain hours is outdated. Urbanization necessitates a shift from time-bound to demand-driven traffic policies, as accidents continue to happen late into the night due to inadequate control.
Calls for reform are growing louder. The All Assam Road Safety Forum proposed a night-duty schedule for traffic police, especially on weekends when nightlife peaks. They emphasize the disconnect between promoting a 24-hour economy while maintaining a 9-to-5 traffic model.
In 2023, Guwahati recorded over 1,200 road accidents, with approximately 35% occurring between 10 PM and 4 AM, illustrating the urgent need for more night-time traffic enforcement. Despite these figures, the visible police presence at night is minimal, focusing primarily on drunken driving checks around bars rather than overall public safety.
Families grieving lost loved ones in late-night accidents are left with painful questions. A father reflected on his son’s tragic death, lamenting that timely help could have saved him.
As Guwahati strives toward modernity, it is crucial for local authorities to prioritize night-time traffic enforcement. It’s time for a stronger commitment to road safety, beyond beautification projects and promoting nightlife tourism. Failing to protect citizens, regardless of the hour, undermines the very fabric of a modern city. Until changes are implemented, Guwahati’s streets after 11 PM will remain silent-not just in noise, but in accountability.
Original Source: https://www.guwahatiplus.com/exclusive-news/guwahatis-nightlife-grows-but-missing-traffic-policemen-pose-threat-to-road-safety
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Publish Date: 2025-06-28 13:15:00
