HC Slams Govt on Urban Wes: Stray Cattle, Wrong-Side Driving, Traffic Chaos Under Fire
During a hearing on a contempt petition concerning urban issues—ranging from stray cattle and pothole-ridden roads to traffic jams, illegal parking, and vendor encroachments—the Gujarat High Court came down hard on the state government and traffic authorities for their failure to ensure public safety.
A bench comprising Justice A S Supehia and Justice R T Vachchhani strongly criticised the growing number of accidents caused by wrong-side driving, calling it a serious threat to innocent lives. The judges directed authorities to seize vehicles, enforce strict penalties, and raise public awareness about traffic laws.
“Our only concern is public safety,” the court asserted, demanding concrete action plans and visible improvements, not mere paperwork or claims.
Weekly Monitoring and Stern Warnings
The bench announced weekly hearings every Wednesday to track progress and demanded regular updates. When state officials claimed the police and traffic department were doing a “commendable job,” the court hit back sharply:
“If you’re experts, then prove it. Why does public nuisance still prevail?”
FIRs Not Enough, Take Stronger Action
The government mentioned that FIRs were being filed against wrong-side drivers. But the court said this was not enough: offenders must be caught, vehicles impounded, and hefty fines imposed. The state assured the bench that stronger enforcement would follow.
Court to Govt: Show Results, Not Excuses
Justice Supehia emphasized that the results must speak for themselves, regardless of whether the authorities follow the court’s exact advice. The court also criticized the government for focusing efforts only on posh areas like SG Highway and CG Road, while neglecting other parts of the city.
The HC pointed out the human cost of wrong-side accidents, urging officials to act with empathy for families facing tragic losses.
“Sometimes we feel like we’re the ones on the wrong side,” said Justice Supehia, recalling roads like Science City, where even large SUVs drive on the wrong side, illustrating the severity of the problem.
Illegal Parking & Inaction Draw Flak
The court also pulled up the government for its inaction against illegal parking near sensitive locations, including the Chief Justice’s bungalow and Pakwan crossroads. Despite past promises, the issue remains unresolved even after a year.
Ban Heavy Vehicles During Peak Hours
Lastly, the bench ordered strict enforcement of rules banning luxury buses and heavy vehicles from entering city roads during peak hours. These vehicles, the court said, severely choke traffic and should be kept off the roads at designated times.
The High Court’s clear message: stop the excuses, enforce the law, and protect the public.