On his first day in office, newly appointed Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Archit Chandak implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy towards individuals making social media reels on the road or performing stunts while driving or riding. The move came shortly after Chandak assumed charge from CP Ravinder Singal, taking on the responsibility of addressing the city’s concerning traffic situation.
Chandak has directed the traffic department to register cases against those creating reels on the streets and to seize their vehicles following legal procedures for such violations. He also emphasized enhancing visible traffic surveillance, particularly during peak hours.
In a bid to crack down on illegal activities, Chandak announced that the traffic police will conduct targeted checks from 6 PM until after midnight, focusing on drunk driving, especially near pubs and bars. “The roads near pubs and bars would be under surveillance for drunk driving,” said Chandak, who is also in charge of the city police’s anti-accident cell, which analyzes road crashes and fatalities.
“We will step up the functioning of the accident cell to ensure that preventive and corrective measures are taken to reduce road accidents and fatalities,” Chandak stated. He also announced a strict crackdown on illegal corner parking, declaring that the traffic police will not tolerate such violations under the Motor Vehicle Act. “We will focus on streamlining traffic near bus stands, railway stations, and other congested areas where pedestrians and vehicles cause chaos,” he added.
In a move to involve the public, Chandak encouraged citizens to share evidence of traffic violations via social media, helping to penalize offenders. He also highlighted plans to revive the traffic wing’s social media presence, aiming to improve its function as a public interface. Additionally, Chandak announced plans to install double signals at key intersections, such as Mate Chowk, to streamline traffic flow, stating, “We will work closely with the NMC and other agencies to improve the traffic condition.”
The new DCP has replaced Shashikant Satav and is calling for public cooperation to help enforce these measures.