In a recurring pre-Diwali scenario, the Delhi-Gurugram Expressway succumbed to extensive traffic jams this year, leaving commuters stranded for over an hour. The situation escalated on Dhanteras, a festive day marked by heightened shopping and family visits ahead of Diwali. A video captured near the toll plaza showcases the magnitude of the jam, revealing an ambulance struggling to navigate through the sea of vehicles.
Despite its eight lanes, the expressway routinely experiences traffic snarls, exacerbated by the Dhanteras rush as people ventured out for last-minute shopping and social gatherings. Dhanteras, a Hindu festival that kicks off the five-day Diwali festivities, sees individuals purchasing items made of gold, silver, and other metals.
The video footage depicts at least one ambulance ensnared in the standstill, surrounded by hundreds of vehicles. The traffic jam stretches for over a kilometer, with vehicles inching forward at a sluggish pace.
Anticipating the surge in pre-Diwali traffic, the Delhi Police issued an advisory on Thursday, warning of heavy congestion on Dhanteras and Diwali. The advisory emphasized potential traffic hotspots around shopping malls and busy market areas, urging the public to opt for public transport, carpooling, or utilize services like bus and metro to alleviate the traffic burden.
“To avoid inconvenience, save time, fuel, and reduce pollution, the general public is advised to utilize the services of public transport like bus, metro, and carpool, etc. Connecting with social media services of Delhi Traffic Police and traffic helpline will further help in planning a hassle-free travel accordingly,” the advisory stated, aiming to facilitate a smoother travel experience for the public during the festive rush.
Sources By Agencies