The Bhangar Traffic Guard is the newest addition to the Kolkata Traffic Police. It is an essential part of the newly established Bhangar Division, which marks the tenth division of the Kolkata Police.
Located at the meeting point of three districts – Kolkata, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas – Bhangar occupies a unique geographical position. With its 19 Gram Panchayats, it stands out from other areas under Kolkata Police jurisdiction. Bhangar, Ghatakpukur, and nearby regions are mainly rural.
Previously, traffic enforcement in such areas was not strict. However, with the establishment of the Bhangar Traffic Guard, this is changing. By using technology and a systematic approach to law enforcement, the Kolkata Traffic Police has built a reputation as one of the country’s most technology-friendly agencies for efficient road traffic management.
The main goal of the Bhangar Traffic Guard personnel is to educate citizens about traffic rules and regulations on a large scale. Initially, they prioritised raising awareness over prosecution, approaching the issue from a humanitarian standpoint. Their efforts in traffic management in Bhangar have received widespread praise from the local community.
The Officer-In-Charge of the Bhangar Traffic Guard, Middya Imamuddin, a highly experienced individual in traffic management, stated, “It’s always a challenge to enforce traffic rules in a semi-rural area. We have received fantastic support from the citizens, who appreciate our efforts. We have distributed free helmets to those riding two-wheelers without them. We are collaborating with the Kolkata Traffic Police Department to enhance the traffic management infrastructure in the Bhangar area. Traffic signage at strategic points is already in place, and we have put up flex boards with traffic rules for mass awareness. Zebra crossings are ready for pedestrians and vehicles. Our efforts are showing immediate impact, and we are focusing on enforcement and prosecution. We are in constant communication with the local community, assuring them of assistance from the Kolkata Traffic Police.”
The Basanti Highway has been a key area of concern for road traffic management. Previously, the Kolkata Police jurisdiction covered 16 KM of the highway. An additional 11 KM has been included. Parking along the Basanti Highway is now completely prohibited to ensure smoother traffic flow.
At crucial locations like the Ghatakpukur crossing, where traffic congestion is a persistent issue, the officials of the Bhangar Traffic Guard have taken steps to address illegal parking. They have maintained ongoing coordination with local police stations to ensure smooth traffic flow.
The Bhangar Traffic Guard officials are working actively with two-wheeler showrooms to promote helmet use among buyers of new motorbikes. They are installing spring posts to enhance road safety and have introduced CCTV cameras,body cameras, and other technology-driven tools across Bhangar to achieve a more efficient and secure traffic management system.
“We are actively addressing incidents of overspeeding, illegal overtaking, riding without helmets, and running red lights, as well as other traffic violations, and taking legal action against the offenders. Those who break traffic rules will receive notifications specifying the relevant sections of the law under which they are being charged. We have relocated a bus stop that was previously situated in front of Ghatakpukur High School. Prior to the Madhyamik and Higher Secondary Examinations, we held extensive meetings with all stakeholders to ensure the safety and smooth transportation of students, guardians, and invigilators. We are also ensuring that the roads are well-illuminated. The significant changes in traffic management in the Bhangar area are clearly visible. We express our gratitude to the law-abiding citizens for their ongoing efforts to help transform Bhangar into a more traffic-friendly environment,” signed off Middya Imamuddin, OC, Bhangar Traffic Guard.
The positive and enthusiastic response from citizens has led to vehicle owners carrying their legal documents and passengers wearing seat belts in four-wheelers. Clear footpaths, free from illegal encroachments, now offer hassle-free passage for local commuters. One can only anticipate that Bhangar will soon be on par with other areas under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Police. l
Narrated to:
Ranabir Bhattacharyya, Team, The Kolkata PROTECTOR.
Bhangar Traffic Guard: Promoting Traffic Compliance in Bhangar
