Onam rush: Regulations in place on Thamarassery ghat road to ensure smooth traffic

Foreseeing a sudden surge in traffic during the Onam celebrations, the police have announced stringent traffic control measures on the Thamarassery pass for three days to ensure uninterrupted vehicular movement and passengers’ safety. As part of the new regulations, a total ban on wayside parking will be in place till September 6.

The regulations, which came into effect on Thursday (September 4), will be enforced strictly near the viewpoints with the support of traffic police officers from Thamarassery station. Gathering near the viewpoints will also be discouraged as part of the measures in place to ensure a smooth traffic.

“The prime reason for these restrictions is to facilitate the trouble-free movement of emergency vehicles, which often face delays due to heavy traffic and roadside parking. We have secured permission from the district administration to proceed with stringent action against the violators,” said a police officer from Thamarassery station. He said patrol squads would be deployed 24x7 to oversee the situation.

The new regulations come just a few days after a mud slip temporarily blocked the road causing significant delays and highlighting the need for proactive traffic control measures. With the terrain still susceptible to mud slips due to recent rains, proper safety measures would be crucial for averting untoward incidents, the officials say.

The police have also put in place elaborate surveillance measures in Kozhikode city to ensure a smooth traffic. Patrol squads have been asked to initiate stringent action against illegal parking. Efforts are also in place to address moving bottlenecks during the festival season.

“As many events are around in connection with the Onam celebrations, we have ensured a sufficient number of plainclothesmen in such spots. The women police officers have also improved their presence in such public places for safety reasons,” said a senior police officer in Kozhikode city. He said aerial surveillance using drone cameras was also under consideration in selected locations.