Traffic management or the lack thereof has emerged as one of the biggest challenges for the rapidly growing Itanagar Capital Region. As incredulous as it may sound, a distance of 12km between Itanagar-Naharlagun on most occasions would take well over an hour to commute.  
The capital administration of late has pulled up its socks and to some extent has been able to control the snags leading to choking of roads. The haphazard parking along the highway which is one of the biggest contributors for sluggish traffic flow has been somewhat managed. That said, there are several aspects on which the administration must work upon to address the problem of traffic management in the capital city. The lack of designated parking areas is a huge problem. It is unrealistic for a rapidly growing capital city not to have enough parking spaces. The government must also seriously consider working on a decent public transport system. The lack of a public transport system has increased the pressure on roads as well as the public. Owning a car here must not be seen as a luxury but rather a necessity. During emergencies and late night hours, one can hardly bank on the existing erratic and rudimentary public transport.
The public on its part must take traffic rules seriously.
Over Rupees 20 lakh has been collected for traffic violations in the capital over a period of four months—from May-August this year. This figure is shocking for the ICC with a comparatively small population. The total population of the Itanagar capital complex is estimated to be around 2 lakhs including floating population. Therefore this astronomical figure is telltale of the sheer indiscipline among the citizens towards traffic rules and etiquette.
The traffic mayhem in the twin capital is an outcome of mismanagement and an equally wilful public. Traffic management in hilly areas is far more challenging but a proper plan and adherence to rules can greatly streamline the process.

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Kenter Joya Riba

(Managing Editor)
      She is a graduate in Science with post graduation in Sociology from University of Pune. She has been in the media industry for nearly a decade. Before turning to print business, she has been associated with radio and television.
Email: kenterjoyaz@easternsentinel.in / editoreasternsentinel@gmail.com
Phone: 0360-2212313

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