Challan checks spark commuter concern over traffic disruptions

Traffic enforcement in parts of the city has come under criticism from commuters, who allege that police are focusing more on recovering pending challans than on ensuring smooth traffic flow, leading to inconvenience during peak hours.

Motorists said vehicles are being stopped at busy stretches, including routes from Maddilapalem to RTC Complex, BRTS Road, Siripuram, the Swarna Bharati Auditorium area, and near the Three Town Police Station. “They are stopping vehicles abruptly in the middle of traffic, especially during the morning rush hour. This is causing long queues and delays,” said a commuter.

Office-goers travelling between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. alleged that groups of traffic personnel are diverting two-wheelers to the roadside and checking pending challans using mobile applications. “Even when we explain that we are getting late for work, they insist on immediate payment of challans,” another motorist said.

Several riders also alleged that vehicle keys are being taken during inspections and returned only after fines are paid. “They take the bike keys and say they will be returned only after payment. Otherwise, they threaten to shift the vehicle to the police station,” a commuter claimed.

Motorists further said these checks are worsening congestion in already crowded areas and, at times, affecting the movement of emergency vehicles. “Even ambulances get stuck when vehicles are stopped suddenly on main roads,” a resident said.

Commuters have urged authorities to conduct enforcement drives in a way that does not disrupt traffic, particularly during peak hours, and to avoid measures that cause hardship in extreme weather conditions.