Ludhiana AAP rally: Commuters suffer from traffic jams

The city was dotted with illegal hoardings during the Aam Aadmi Party’s Shukrana Yatra, organized to celebrate the success of the party’s candidates in the recently concluded bypolls. Besides, the hoardings also welcome the appointment of Aman Arora as the state president of the party and Sherry Kalsi as the working president. Banners and billboards installed at key locations not only violate municipal regulations, but also obstruct road signs, creating inconvenience for commuters.

The rally began around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, starting from Daba Chowk and passing through Vishwakarma Chowk, Jagraon Bridge, Jalandhar Bypass and Ladhowal. AAP workers and various associations installed unauthorized hoardings on poles, buildings and even on hoardings along GT Road, covering essential traffic directions.

Long traffic jams were reported, including at Vishwakarma Chowk, where the rally paralyzed traffic for almost two hours. GT Road users have faced significant delays and inconvenience due to the “mismanagement” of the rally movement.

One frustrated commuter remarked: “The authorities should ensure that such political events do not disrupt public life. Blocking roads and covering signs is highly irresponsible.

The Punjab Municipal Outdoor Advertising Policy 2018 strictly prohibits the installation of hoardings, banners or advertisements without the prior approval of the Municipal Commissioner. It also requires that public spaces, including traffic signs, remain free of obstructions to ensure the flow of traffic and public safety.

Despite these regulations, the Shukrana Yatra route was flooded with illegal hoardings. Commuters have complained of blocked signage and obscured directions, causing confusion and delays to travel.

Another city resident said, “Even though the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation (MC) is often quick to take action against individuals or businesses for such violations, it seems to turn a blind eye when political parties are involved. » Critics alleged that the MC’s inaction highlighted bias in law enforcement.

Repeated attempts to reach HS Dhalla, head of the publicity wing of the MC, for a comment went unanswered.

As the city continues to feel the impact of gatherings, residents are urging officials to enforce regulations fairly and ensure public amenities are not compromised for political purposes.