PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Traffic diversions and zero-zone restrictions during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Dehradun on Tuesday left commuters stranded for varying durations in some parts of the city. Police imposed a zero zone on the stretch from Asharodi to Garhi Cantt nearly an hour before the Prime Minister’s convoy movement. Vehicles already on key routes, including GMS Road and nearby areas, were stopped midway, forcing many commuters to wait on the roads or walk to their destinations.
“I understand security is important, but there should be better planning for the public. People were stuck without any information about when the road would reopen,” said Radhika Negi, a commuter affected by the restrictions.
Residents said that the diversions caused inconvenience not only on main roads but also inside residential areas. Various internal colony roads remained congested for long durations, making it difficult for people to reach homes and offices on time.
Akash Dua, who was travelling towards Ballupur, said that he remained stuck near the flyover for more than an hour. “I was on my way to attend a family function, but the traffic just didn’t move. Standing in the heat for so long made the situation worse,” he said.
Some people were seen walking along closed stretches after leaving their vehicles behind. Traffic congestion continued even after the conclusion of the PM’s programme. As crowds began to disperse, long queues of vehicles formed in the area before police gradually restored normal movement.
“Such arrangements may be necessary for high-security during VVIP visits, but the administration should ensure that common people are not left stranded like this,” said another resident waiting near a diversion point.
