Mangaluru Police Commissioner Kuldeep Jain shares his plans to tackle traffic congestion in city
Exclusive interview with Vartha Bharati
Mangaluru City is grappling with numerous traffic-related challenges, including congestion, unauthorized parking, reckless driving, and violations of traffic rules. These concerns were further highlighted by a protest that occurred after a tragic road accident in March, where a 55-year-old woman lost her life after being hit by a private bus at Bendoorwell Junction. In response to these pressing issues, Mangaluru Police Commissioner, Kuldeep Kumar R Jain, assured the public of measures to tackle the traffic menace.
Speaking to Vartha Bharati recently, Geetha Kulkarni, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Traffic), emphasized the lack of traffic awareness among the public, particularly when it comes to basic rules such as speeding, following signals, and proper parking. She stressed that strict action is taken against those who violate traffic rules. Additionally, Geetha highlighted that negligent driving by private city buses does not go unchecked, as notices are issued, and fines are duly paid by the offenders.
Highlighting the role of technology in efficient traffic management, Geetha expressed interest in Section 136A of the Motor Vehicles Act (MVA), which enables the use of electronic means to monitor road safety. Alongside the deployment of CCTV cameras, handheld devices are employed to book violators of road rules, enabling the imposition of fines.
In an interview with Vartha Bharathi, Police Commissioner Kuldeep Jain outlined various initiatives aimed at reducing traffic congestion and promoting road safety in the city. These include the adoption of innovative technologies and the significance of engaging with the community to understand their concerns regarding traffic issues. Kuldeep emphasized the importance of not only implementing traffic rules but also ensuring their adherence.
Excerpts from an Interview with Mangaluru Police Commissioner Kuldeep Kumar R Jain on Addressing Traffic Menace and Ensuring Road Safety:
Q: What initiatives has the police department undertaken to address traffic issues in the city since you became the police commissioner?
Kuldeep Jain: We have focused on streamlining parking by enforcing parallel parking instead of perpendicular parking. Additionally, we have prohibited parking within a 100-meter radius of junctions to avoid blockage. To crack down on illegal parking, we are using wheel clamps. Our aim is to ensure immediate consequences for those who violate parking regulations.
Q: How do you plan to tackle traffic violations and enforce stricter traffic laws?
Kuldeep Jain: Our officers are already available at major junctions during peak hours, working in two shifts from 7 am to 10 pm. We take strict action against individuals who violate traffic rules.
Q: Are there any innovative technologies or smart traffic solutions being implemented to manage traffic more efficiently?
Kuldeep Jain: We have initiated the proposal for an Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS) to automate 20 junctions. This system will enhance road safety and automatically capture traffic violators. Additionally, we have introduced four Cobra two-wheeler traffic patrol vehicles, which have significantly improved our response time and efficiency in addressing traffic-related concerns.
Q: How do you collaborate with other government agencies to tackle traffic challenges, including infrastructure development and public transportation?
Kuldeep Jain: Collaboration among all agencies is crucial to ensure road safety measures are implemented effectively. We have had meetings with the government in the past three and a half months to discuss and coordinate strategies. We have also established a WhatsApp group to promptly address issues such as potholes and communicate with relevant stakeholders.
Q: How do you engage with the community and gather feedback for improving the city's traffic situation?
Kuldeep Jain: We regularly seek suggestions and feedback from the public to enhance traffic conditions. Initiatives such as the Phone-in programme and the Sanchara Samparka Divasa (Traffic Connectivity Day) allow people to report traffic issues directly to us. We also engage in discussions with college managements to find ways to ease traffic near educational institutions.
Q: You recently appealed to the public to volunteer as traffic wardens. How has the response been so far?
Kuldeep Jain: Unfortunately, the response has been disappointing. We spend a significant amount of time and resources creating awareness about the importance of volunteering. We only ask for four hours of a volunteer's time during a week of 160 hours. It is crucial for the public to join hands with the police to ensure smooth traffic flow.
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Chandrashekhar Swamiji apologises for remark on denying voting rights to Muslims
"If my statement has upset our Muslim brothers, I deeply regret it."
Bengaluru: Kumara Chandrashekharanath Swamiji, head of the Vishva Okkaliga Mahasansthana Mutt, has expressed regret over his controversial statement suggesting that "Muslims should be denied voting rights."
In a press release, Swamiji clarified, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."
He further added, "Okkaligas are inherently tolerant of all religions. We have always treated people of every faith equally. Our Mutt maintains cordial relations with Muslims, and they frequently visit us. Similarly, we attend their weddings and other joyous occasions. Hence, there is no intolerance towards this community." Swamiji appealed to the public to disregard the controversy surrounding his remark.
The controversial statement was made during a farmers' rally, ‘Raita Gharjana,’ organised by the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh, Karnataka Pradesh, at Freedom Park, Bengaluru, on Tuesday. Addressing the gathering, Swamiji had said, "A law should be enacted to deny voting rights to the Muslim community, and the Wakf Board should be abolished."
The remark drew widespread criticism from political leaders and the public alike. Following the backlash, Swamiji issued his apology, stating, "Muslims are also citizens of this country. Like everyone else, they too have voting rights. If my statement yesterday has caused discomfort to our Muslim brothers, I sincerely apologise for it."
