JOIN USStung by criticism on the traffic chaos that manifests itself at the India International Trade Fair around Pragati Maidan every year, the Delhi Traffic Police has taken extra measures this time to ensure smooth flow of crowds at the prestigious event. The organising committee India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) has also taken some much needed steps and visitors seem to be satisfied with the arrangements.
Firstly, the underground parking at Delhi High Court, which is normally available for HC lawyers and judges only, has been thrown open to the public visiting the fair. The multi-level car parking has a capacity to hold 1,467 cars. Apart from this, parking facilities at Ashpond, Delhi Zoo, Sarai Kale Khan, Pragati Maidan gate number 2 and Sunhari Pula (Dayal Singh College) can also be used.
To minimise traffic congestion on the roads leading to Pragati Maidan, the Delhi Traffic Police is fining those parking their vehicles illegally near the venue. “No vehicle is allowed to halt or park anywhere at Mathura Road, Bhairon Marg, Sher Shah or Purana Qila Road. Those found doing so are being challaned for improper parking by Rs 600, exclusive of the towing charges. A U-turn on Mathura Road is prohibited and a right turn from Mathura Road to Purana Qila road and Bhagwan Das Road is also not allowed,” said Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), Satyendra Garg.
ITPO has also made a few changes in the venue layout for the convenience of VIP visitors as well as the general public. An official here said, “For the first time, we have changed the Protocol Lounge, VIP Lounge and other access points to Gate no. 1, Bhairon Marg to provide facilitation services to overseas trade delegations at the fair. Easy access has been provided to visitors on foot at gate no. 5, 6, 7, 1, 2 and 4. Adequate safety arrangements have been made with the help of Delhi Police, CISF, Fire Services and Bomb disposal squad of the Indian Army.”
A visitor at the fair, Kuldeep Singh, said, “I have been visiting the trade fair with my family for the past several years now. While the crowds seem to have only swollen, the traffic chaos seems to have come down. I see the police has put barricades at many places to direct the flow of crowds in and out of Pragati Maidan. I think that has been very helpful.”
The fair is open for public till November 27.