Kolkata, 21 July (H.S.):

The Calcutta High Court on Monday expressed satisfaction over the traffic management efforts by Kolkata Police during the annual Shaheed Diwas rally organized by the Trinamool Congress (TMC). Justice Tirthankar Ghosh noted that the police had done a commendable job in ensuring smooth vehicular movement, and no major traffic disruptions were observed across the city.

During the hearing, an advocate informed the court that it took around 20 to 25 minutes to travel from New Alipore to the High Court—similar to a normal day. Justice Ghosh agreed, stating that the time taken indicated the traffic system had functioned efficiently.

Earlier, the court had issued strict directives to the Kolkata Police, instructing them to ensure that no traffic congestion occurred between 9 AM and 11 AM on July 21, particularly within a five-kilometre radius of the High Court and central Kolkata. It had also mandated that the TMC rally should conclude by 8 AM, and participants should remain stationary after 9 AM.

In line with the court’s orders, the police successfully maintained order in most parts of central Kolkata during the crucial two-hour window. While there were no major traffic snarls, a reduced availability of public transport caused minor inconveniences for commuters.

Commuters in areas like Dharmatala, Moulali, Mallickbazar, and near NRS Medical College reported difficulty in finding buses and taxis. However, regions including Park Circus, Shakespeare Sarani, and Minto Park saw well-regulated traffic from early morning.

To support smooth flow, TMC volunteers at various assistance camps were seen announcing the court’s instructions throughout the morning. Police personnel deployed barricades at strategic points and carefully managed the movement of both pedestrians and vehicles.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh