Patna: The Patna district administration has raised concerns over worsening traffic congestion on Mahatma Gandhi Setu, attributing the gridlock to an “entry mafia” allegedly obstructing sand trucks in Vaishali. Despite efforts to regulate vehicle movement, the bridge remains heavily congested, worsened by ongoing road repairs and trucks parked on one lane.
The disruption has led to long queues of vehicles stretching from Mahatma Gandhi Setu to Fatuha-Daniyawan. In response, the Patna district administration has formally alerted the Vaishali district magistrate and superintendent of police, urging immediate action to address the issue.
Restrictions on Truck Movement Fail to Ease Congestion
Authorities have attempted to reduce congestion by limiting truck movement across the bridge. Previously, 1,000 sand trucks were allowed to pass between 11 pm and 4 am, but the number has now been halved to 500, with a revised window from midnight to 3 am. However, these measures have done little to improve the traffic situation, particularly on the Vaishali side.
In an effort to provide alternative routes for small vehicles during peak traffic hours, the Patna administration has proposed constructing a pontoon bridge near Gaighat. At a meeting on 29 January, the city’s traffic superintendent suggested placing the pontoon bridge under Mahatma Gandhi Setu, a proposal that has been approved by district officials and forwarded to the road construction department.
Concerns Over Economic Impact
Officials warn that continued restrictions on sand truck movement could lead to a shortage of construction materials, affecting not just North Bihar but also other states. The potential increase in construction costs may drive up inflation, compounding economic challenges.
Currently, sand trucks are being regulated at Koilwar and Gandhi Setu, but disruptions in Saran and Vaishali districts continue to cause severe congestion. To restore normal truck movement and alleviate the traffic crisis on Gandhi Setu, the Patna district administration has formally requested intervention from the Vaishali authorities.
