Kohima RTA takes steps to curb traffic woes

August 18, 2023 56 Views No Comment

KOHIMA, AUGUST 18 (MExN): In an effort to combat the burgeoning traffic woes of the State capital, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of Kohima, chaired by the Deputy Commissioner Shanavas C, IAS, held a meeting on August 16 at the DC’s Conference Hall. The gathering was focused on devising pragmatic solutions to tackle the mounting traffic issues that have been plaguing Kohima.

The meeting delved into the pressing concern of escalating traffic congestion and the myriad challenges it poses to the city’s residents. The decision was reached to initiate the establishment of “Ward Parking Committees” as a pilot project in five key wards. This approach aims to strategically manage parking spaces within these wards, consequently alleviating traffic congestion in the area. The mantle of Convenor for these committees was placed on SDO (C) Sardar, Kohima, while an assembly of stakeholders, including DSP (Traffic), RTA representatives, KMC officials, and Ward Chairmen, were designated as members of this taskforce.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the immediate utilization of the Kohima Smart City Development Ltd. (KSCDL) multi-level parking facilities as an experimental measure to mitigate traffic congestion. A specialized committee, led by Addl. SP Kohima and comprising members from pertinent departments, will be constituted to explore inventive strategies for the efficient operation of two multi-level car parking facilities.

Emphasizing the significance of enhanced surveillance in parking management, KSCDL was urged to install state-of-the-art high-resolution CCTV cameras at critical entry and exit points across Kohima.

The meeting encompassed several other pertinent issues, including establishment of feeder passenger vehicle services to the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT), allocation of dedicated space for regional taxi parking, and creation of designated “Green Channel” for city bus services catering to students and office workers. Additionally, the forum evaluated the existing traffic management system around Oking Hospital and Jail Colony with the intention of optimizing their efficacy.

A PowerPoint presentation on the prevailing traffic scenario within Kohima was delivered by DSP (Traffic), providing insights into the underlying factors contributing to the city’s traffic congestion. Among these factors were population density, non-compliance with traffic regulations, and the frequent disruption caused by VIP motorcades. With a daily vehicular count of approximately 1,95,284 vehicles, the task of managing traffic in Kohima remains a formidable challenge.

Beyond the traffic management scope, the meeting extended its discussions to encompass strategies aimed at alleviating congestion during peak hours, the forthcoming construction of a veterinary center, upgrades to educational institutions, and various infrastructure projects geared towards enhancing the overall quality of life for the local community.