Chandigarh Model: High Court’s Prescription for Punjab’s Traffic Woes

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has lauded Chandigarh’s market design as a potential solution to the escalating traffic congestion plaguing Punjab’s cities. The court observed that rapid population growth often renders even the most well-intentioned traffic management plans ineffective.

This observation came during the hearing of a long-standing petition, originally filed in 1998. The petition highlighted persistent failures in the existing signal systems and the urgent need for improved highway signage across the state.

The court’s focus on Chandigarh’s model suggests a shift towards proactive urban planning. By adopting a structured approach to market design, similar to Chandigarh’s, Punjab can potentially alleviate traffic bottlenecks and improve road safety. The implications for urban development and infrastructure planning in the state are significant, demanding immediate attention from policymakers.

This ruling comes at a crucial juncture, as Punjab’s cities grapple with increasing vehicular traffic and the consequent challenges to public mobility and infrastructure. The state government now faces the critical task of implementing effective solutions, based on the High Court’s recommendations, to ensure a smoother and safer commute for its citizens.