On the first day of partial unlock across the city, vehicular traffic movement on Monday, June 7, was only slightly more than usual. However, long queues were noticed at bus stops at Borivali and Sion, among other locations, as several people opted for public transport.
Several motorists reported congestion on the Eastern and Western Express Highways, Andheri East, Dadar and on LBS Road between Vikhroli bus depot and Shreyas.
Besides, despite restrictions earlier this month, unusually high traffic jams were observed on the Western Express Highway (WEH) and Dahisar toll naka, especially during peak hours. Moreover, officials attributed the traffic due to the rigorous checking at various nakabandi points in the city.
On Monday, June 7, a senior traffic officer said that the main reason for snarl-ups till Sunday, June 6, was nakabandis put up by the police. The checkpoints led to backlogs. But, there were no nakabandis and as a result, there was no backlog. As far as private vehicles are concerned, about a 10 per cent rise was observed in traffic movement in the western suburbs.
Also Read: Mumbai To Follow Level 3 Unlock Plan. Here's What's Allowed From June 7
The decision to reduce nakabandis was taken as the government had relaxed a few restrictions such as the opening of shops and establishments. However, sources said that nakabandis might resume post 5 pm as shops and establishments have been asked to shut by 4 pm.
Meanwhile, on May 31, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, who also inaugurated the trial run of the Metro line at Akurli station, had also expressed his concern over heavy vehicular traffic on the WEH during the lockdown. In addition, he had warned of stricter curbs if the traffic continued.
Also Read: Maharashtra govt to implement five-level Unlock Plan From June 7; Here's what allowed
Share
Tweet
