Mumbai is on high alert as it prepares for potential traffic disruptions on Republic Day due to a Maratha quota march led by activist Manoj Jarange and his supporters. The march, which began in Jalna district on January 20, is demanding the allocation of Maratha quota under the OBC grouping in jobs and education. While the Mumbai Police has not officially issued an advisory or provided a detailed roadmap, media reports have outlined certain details regarding the potential routes and entry points of the march, as well as anticipated traffic restrictions.
The Maratha quota workers are expected to enter Mumbai via the Eastern Freeway in Wadala, proceeding towards Azad Maidan in south Mumbai for an indefinite hunger strike. Additionally, Dadar’s Shivaji Park has been identified as another venue for the demonstration. However, the Mumbai Police is yet to release an official statement or comprehensive plan for managing the expected traffic chaos on Republic Day.
In terms of traffic restrictions, a notification by the Mumbai Traffic Police has outlined several measures to control the movement of heavy vehicles on south Mumbai routes during peak hours. Buses, both interstate and inter-district, as well as trailers and trucks, will face restrictions during the daytime. They will only be allowed to ply between midnight and 7 am in Mumbai. The notification also highlights the prohibition of heavy vehicles on the Eastern Freeway. These measures aim to ensure the smooth progress of the Maratha quota march while minimizing disruptions to regular traffic flow.
The notification specifies that heavy vehicles are restricted from entering and plying on all types of roads in Mumbai city from 8 am to 11:30 am (southbound) and 5 pm to 9 pm (northbound). Moreover, a restriction on heavy vehicles entering south Mumbai is imposed from 7 am to midnight, with travel permitted only between midnight and 7 am. Between 11:30 am and 5 pm, heavy vehicles are permitted up to specific junctions and roads, including Mallet Bunder junction, Dadar TT Junction, Ram Mandir Chowk, Mahim Junction, and others.
It is crucial to note that emergency vehicles and those involved in essential services are exempted from these restrictions to ensure timely responses and critical services. However, these exemptions are designed to strike a balance between facilitating the Maratha quota march and maintaining essential services during the planned demonstration.
As the Mumbai Police is yet to release a formal advisory, residents and commuters are advised to stay updated on any further announcements and plan their journeys accordingly. The situation is subject to change, and the police department is likely to provide additional details closer to Republic Day. With the potential for disruptions, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, adhere to official guidance, and exercise patience as authorities work to manage the situation and uphold public safety during this period of heightened activity and public demonstrations.