Bhopal: Cops To Stay On Duty To Manage Post-Rally Traffic

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Learning from traffic chaos that ensued after the Global Investors Summit, Bhopal police have decided to keep traffic personnel deployed for at least three hours after the conclusion of the upcoming Women Empowerment Convention, which will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 31.

The mega event is expected to witness participation of around two lakh women from across Madhya Pradesh, arriving in over 5,000 buses from districts such as Indore, Khandwa, Ujjain, Dewas, Shajapur, Rajgarh, Guna, Byavra, Sagar, Raisen, Vidisha, Jabalpur and other remote areas.

To manage the influx and ensure smooth traffic flow, traffic police have identified and prepared multiple parking zones around the Jamboree Maidan. Special parking provisions have been made for vehicles carrying VIP passes. In addition, a comprehensive plan for traffic diversions is being implemented to reduce congestion during the event.

Anticipating a heavy outbound rush once the programme ends, the police have developed a detailed exit strategy. According to Additional Commissioner of Police Pankaj Srivastava, traffic personnel will be stationed around Jamboree Maidan, at nearby crossings, designated parking areas and other strategic points to guide departure of buses and maintain smooth vehicular movement.

Importantly, police officers will remain at their posts for up to three hours after the Prime Minister’s departure to prevent traffic snarls.

Security rehearsal

A joint security drill was conducted by the Special Protection Group (SPG) and Bhopal police on Thursday in preparation for the Prime Minister’s visit. The rehearsal simulated the PM’s arrival via helicopter at Jamboree Maidan, where three helipads have been readied. Though the plan is to fly the Prime Minister directly from the airport to the venue, officials said a road route is also being kept as a contingency in case of adverse weather. A secured corridor will be arranged for the PM’s cavalcade if he travels by road.

Ban on phone, bottle

As part of VVIP security measures, police officials have banned the entry of mobile phones and water bottles at the convention venue. Participants have been specifically instructed not to bring any such items to the event, officials said.