The first phase of the No Vehicle Zone exercise in the Walled City area of Udaipur was initiated over this weekend (20-21 August) at selected areas, namely Jagdish Chowk, Rang Niwas and Chandpol.

Keeping an eye on city’s traffic and pollution, which is increasing day by day the administration has attempted this exercise, the first phase of which, was completed successfully, both to the relief of the residents and businesses in the area, as well as the tourists.

The Administration of Udaipur as well as the residents of this small tourist destination need to work hand in hand to ensure that the environment, which is a very significant contributor to the ecosystem of Udaipur be given its due care. The No Vehicle Zone exercise is one such initiative towards this motive - Kailash, local shopkeeper

No Vehicle Zone trial

The No-Vehicle Zone trial was initiated on 20-21 August (Saturday – Sunday) from 5pm to 10pm. The exercise included restrictions on four wheelers and three wheelers in these areas during the trial duration. Only two wheelers were permitted. Additionally, the administration established services of battery operated auto rickshaws for the convenience of tourists to the area.

Some areas of the city like Jagdish Chowk, Rang Niwas, Chandpol and other bylanes of the walled city are flocked with heavy traffic. Subsequent to the No-Vehicle Zone trial, residents of the area are now happy with results as traffic problems disappeared over the weekend. The tourist department and residents of the area asserted that what is currently a trial, will now is a permanent feature in the walled city area.

Kailash, a shopkeeper, claims to have been requesting a No-Vehicle Zone trial from several months now and with the administration taking cognizance, his mission seems to have taken its first step. He added, that with Udaipur administration taking concrete steps towards smart city, the residents and administration need to comply to environment friendly norms and regulations to keep the city safe and healthy.

Resistance

While a majority of the residents and tourists appreciated this move, the Auto (tempo) Drivers Association of the city made a representation to the Collector on Monday, 22 April. While the association was in sync with the decision, they requested that the administration permit auto rickshaws in the area during the No Vehicle Zone period. Citing that this restriction puts a big dent in their daily wages, they also added that it is a reason for inconvenience to the tourists, as they have to alight from the e-rickshaws once they are out of the walled city and then use the regular transport services if they have to go further.