Will Bengaluru Tackle Traffic Woes with Towing Resumption?

Bengaluru, May 27 (NationPress) The Karnataka government unveiled a significant decision on Tuesday to reinstate the towing system for vehicles parked in no-parking zones, which had been halted in February 2022 amidst numerous complaints. This initiative aims to address the city's persistent traffic challenges.

Home Minister G. Parameshwara shared this announcement with reporters following a review meeting at the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner's office, confirming that the resolution was reached during a recent cabinet meeting.

He stated, "Indiscriminate parking is causing severe traffic disruption. It is imperative to put an end to this. The towing system will be reinstated, utilizing department staff and vehicles for towing operations. We will collaborate with the Bengaluru civic agency to implement various measures to alleviate traffic issues," he emphasized.

Parameshwara stressed the need for comprehensive solutions, stating, "Heavy rainfall has exacerbated the situation. Currently, there are 19 critical congestion points, with 8 locations experiencing dire traffic problems. A permanent resolution is essential. If the police department and the Bengaluru civic agency cooperate, we can tackle this issue. I have instructed the city police to prepare a report for the government regarding traffic matters, and a meeting will be organized with the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Transport Minister to deliberate on this issue," he added.

Additionally, he mentioned that directives have been issued to gather information on foreigners residing in the city, which will aid in identifying illegal immigrants.

Parameshwara acknowledged that while efforts to control the drug menace have been successful, public reports regarding drug availability persist. He assured that stricter actions would be taken against drug activities, and any police officials neglecting this issue will be held accountable.

Measures to enhance the safety of women and children have also been implemented. Under the Nirbhaya scheme, 9,000 cameras have been installed, and safety islands have been created, according to the minister.

He asserted, "According to the Safe City report, Bengaluru is regarded as a safe city. The Bengaluru City Police will not rest on these accomplishments but will strive for even greater efficiency," he stated.

Parameshwara warned that any involvement of police officials in real estate scams or dealings with brokers will not be tolerated. Immediate and strict action will be executed if such involvement is discovered, as per his instructions to the city Police Commissioner.

The minister highlighted a new initiative called 'Police at Every Home', which will be rolled out statewide. Police personnel will engage with the public, address concerns, and provide assistance. They will visit schools and colleges, participate in parent-teacher meetings, and raise awareness about the dangers of drugs, traffic regulations, and legal rights. The police beat system will also be reinforced for better effectiveness.

Parameshwara noted that there are around 15,000 vacancies in the Police Department, which will be filled. Currently, 545 Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) trainees are in training, and results for 402 PSIs are pending, with plans to assign 219 PSIs to Bengaluru city.

Attending the meeting were In-Charge State Director General and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem, Bengaluru City Police Commissioner B. Dayananda, Additional Police Commissioners Ramesh Banoth and Vikash Kumar Vikash, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) M.N. Anucheth, Joint Commissioner of Police (CCB) Chandragupta, and DCPs from all divisions.