To streamline passenger flow and traffic management around Ajmeri Gate at New Delhi Railway Station, a 'Parking cum Access Control' system has been implemented starting June 25th.
New Delhi Railway Station: A new parking and traffic control system was implemented at New Delhi Railway Station's Ajmeri Gate entrance on June 25th. The railway administration introduced a "Parking cum Access Control" system to reduce congestion in the pick-and-drop zone and ensure smooth traffic flow. Under this new system, any vehicle can park for a maximum of 8 minutes free of charge. Staying longer than 8 minutes incurs a penalty, leading to dissatisfaction among passengers and drivers.
Key Points of the New System
- First 8 minutes – Free parking.
- 8 to 15 minutes – ₹50 charge.
- 15 to 30 minutes – ₹200 charge.
- Over 30 minutes – Vehicle impounded and ₹500 fine.
Railway officials believe this system will reduce congestion, control traffic, and increase railway revenue. This rule was previously in effect but was discontinued after the tender expired. It has now been reactivated.
Already Implemented at Anand Vihar
This system is already in place at Anand Vihar Railway Station in Delhi, and according to officials, it has yielded positive results there. The same model is being adopted at New Delhi Railway Station to improve traffic management. While the railway claims this new system will improve traffic flow, passengers and drivers may face significant difficulties. The 8-minute time limit is considered impractical, especially for elderly passengers, people with disabilities, those traveling with heavy luggage, and families with children.
An auto-rickshaw driver stated that several passengers disembark from a car or taxi, unload luggage, and then show tickets before entering the station. How can all this be done in 8 minutes? A woman who had come to drop off her elderly parents said their mobility is slow, and they had to wait for a wheelchair. By then, the 8-minute limit was exceeded, resulting in a ₹50 fine.
Railway's Stand
Railway officials say this system is being implemented on a trial basis and can be modified if any group faces difficulties. Officials stated that both private and commercial vehicles must adhere to the rules. However, unlike before, private vehicles now also only get an 8-minute grace period.
- Reduced unnecessary congestion in the pick-and-drop zone.
- Curbs on the arbitrary actions of cab drivers.
- Prioritizes quick passenger drop-offs.
- However, on the other hand,
- Difficulty for the elderly, disabled, and those traveling with children.
- Faster traffic flow, but potential disregard for humanitarian needs.
- Dedicated lanes for passengers requiring special assistance (e.g., elderly or disabled).
- Implementation of a token system to allow those in need more than 8 minutes.
- Increased CCTV surveillance in the drop-off area to ensure transparency in the penalty process.
