New Delhi: Parking shortages, traffic movement, pedestrian access and encroachments were among the key concerns raised by Khan Market traders during a “Traffic Panchayat” held on Saturday with Delhi Police, Delhi Traffic Police and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC).The meeting, held at the Disaster Management Centre on Humayun Road, saw traders flag issues related to access to the market, parking availability, pedestrian crossings and traffic management on Shah Jahan Road. Signal timings, encroachments by mechanics and other businesses occupying public spaces, and the need for better traffic regulation were also discussed.The duration of red lights and traffic arrangements at key intersections were also discussed. Traders also flagged encroachment by mechanics and other businesses, explaining that public spaces are often occupied, affecting the movement of vehicles and pedestrians as well as parking availability. The need for stricter enforcement against such encroachments was discussed.With the BRICS summit approaching, officials and traders also discussed traffic and security arrangements for visitors and delegates expected to visit the market. The need for adequate CCTV coverage and coordination between different agencies was highlighted. Traders also discussed ways to facilitate and welcome visitors to the market during the summit.Special CP (Traffic) Ajay Chaudhary said the meeting was aimed at bringing all stakeholders together to identify practical solutions to the issues faced by the market. “We received several useful suggestions today and discussed the issues being faced by traders. Such meetings are important because all agencies and stakeholders need to come together to find solutions,” he said.Pedestrian movement was another key focus, with officials discussing ways to maximise pedestrianisation and make Khan Market more pedestrian-friendly. Beautification and cleanliness of the market were also discussed as part of efforts to improve the overall experience for visitors and traders.Parking emerged as one of the major concerns, with discussions around underground parking, additional parking floors and the possibility of reviving an earlier tender for an underground parking facility. NDMC officials also said a smart parking solution for Khan Market was being considered in the near future.Joint CP (Traffic) Sanjay Tyagi said, “The Sujan Singh Park traffic signal potentially being operated manually during peak hours and the timing of the signal on SBM Road to be reviewed and increased was also discussed.” The meeting also discussed several specific traffic management measures, including exploring an underground parking facility at the vacant plot on Amrita Shergill Marg and introducing a one-way circulation system within Khan Market to ease congestion.Officials also discussed a dedicated pick-and-drop point for taxis and TSRs, along with a stand for three to four TSRs at Sujan Singh Park. LPR cameras installed at the entry points of Khan Market were reported to be functional, while hotels in the area would be sensitised to regulate guest vehicle parking and prevent hotel-related traffic from affecting movement.The meeting was aimed at addressing immediate concerns while also working towards a long-term plan for improving traffic flow, parking, pedestrian movement and the overall streetscape around Khan Market.
