In a bid to tackle the growing problem of traffic congestion in the city ahead of Durga Puja, the Agartala Municipal Corporation (AMC) and the Traffic Department on Monday launched a special drive covering the stretch from Kaman Chowmuhani to Post Chowmuhani.

Traffic snarls have become a daily struggle in several busy pockets of the capital. 

A senior AMC official said the drive has been taken up to ensure hassle-free movement of people during the festive season, while also maintaining the city’s order and aesthetics.

“Cars, bikes and scooties are often parked along roadsides, intersections and narrow lanes without following traffic rules, causing severe disruption. 

Strict action is being taken against such illegal parking,” the official said. Several vehicles were removed during the drive, while fines were also imposed in certain cases.

In addition to traffic measures, the AMC also cracked down on plastic use. Plastic bags were seized from temporary food stalls that had encroached on footpaths, despite an existing ban. Authorities said repeated warnings had gone unheeded by shopkeepers.

“Durga Puja witnesses a massive footfall in the city. Our aim is to keep roads free from congestion so that both common people and emergency services can move without obstruction. We are also working to ensure cleanliness and prevent accidents,” the official added.

The AMC has assured that similar drives will continue in the coming days to make the city festive-ready.