Ahmedabad: Citizens need to become aware, follow traffic rules

The inefficiency on the part of Traffic Police is not the only contributor to traffic congestions in the city, citizen are equally at fault, according to officials. Commuters are often found flouting traffic rules and regulations. According to Traffic Police officials, ignorance is to be blamed for such behavior.

A senior traffic cop said that most commuters in the city don't have the basic knowledge of traffic rules and they unintentionally violate them. There is serious lack of awareness and sensitivity about traffic rules.

Neerja Gotru, special commissioner of Traffic Police, said: "Basic rules such as 'Right of Way' and 'Defense driving' which should be known to drivers is not there at all, which leads to accidents and major traffic congestion on roads. This happens due to lack of awareness and mindset of people, which should be changed. When that happens it will automatically reflect on roads."

Lack of infrastructure in the city is another reason why commuters violate traffic rules. For example, in case of illegal parking, lack of alternative parking space often forces people to park their vehicles in 'no parking zones'.