Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, has long been grappling with an escalating traffic crisis that is causing severe disruption to daily life. With increasing congestion, chaotic parking practices, and frequent violations of traffic rules, it is evident that the city’s traffic management system is struggling to keep pace with the growing population and vehicle numbers. The problems are not just limited to the lack of infrastructure; they stem from a lack of respect for the system itself, both from the authorities and the public.
A major challenge lies in the inadequate manpower of the traffic police. With the current number of traffic personnel, managing the sprawling roads of Imphal seems like an insurmountable task. Traffic police officers are often seen working under stressful conditions with limited resources, and their authority is undermined by those who possess political influence or have the ability to sway government policies. This lack of respect from those in power, particularly those who can influence the government machinery, only exacerbates the situation, making it harder for traffic personnel to enforce rules effectively.
Additionally, the issue of parking remains a key concern. Despite the establishment of parking zones across different areas of Imphal, there is still confusion about the legitimacy of these parking sites, leaving many drivers uncertain about where they can park legally. Worse, parking fees are being collected in areas where parking regulations are unclear, further contributing to public frustration. The growing issue of double parking is another major concern, which remains largely unchecked. While fines should be imposed for such violations, enforcement appears lax due to a shortage of manpower and resources.
It is also apparent that the Traffic Regulation and Parking Committee (TRPC), which should be holding regular meetings to address these pressing concerns, has been largely inactive. This lack of coordination and follow-through by the authorities only deepens the problem. Meanwhile, the citizens themselves are not blameless. While most drivers follow the rules, there is a significant number who violate traffic regulations with impunity. Those driving costly vehicles, in particular, often believe they are above the law, ignoring basic traffic rules without facing any consequences. The traffic police, with limited equipment and authority, are unable to compel these individuals to comply.
The current situation is made worse by the state of the roads themselves. Despite the ongoing Road Safety Month, the streets of Imphal are filled with potholes, posing further danger to drivers and pedestrians alike. Reckless driving has become the norm for many, and without proper enforcement, road safety continues to be a distant dream.
The state government must step in and take urgent action. This involves providing adequate resources and manpower to the traffic police, clearing up the confusion around parking regulations, and ensuring stricter enforcement of traffic rules. The Traffic Regulation and Parking Committee should not just be a name on paper but must actively engage with the challenges faced by the public and authorities alike.
Additionally, there is an urgent need for awareness campaigns, targeting both the public and the authorities, to instill a culture of respect for traffic laws. This is not just about managing traffic; it is about creating a safer and more organized environment for everyone. Imphal’s traffic woes will not resolve themselves on their own—it requires a concerted effort from both the government and its citizens to bring about meaningful change. Only then can we hope for a safer and more manageable Imphal.