No e-rickshaw here, say cops. So, they take the risky shortcut
The practice of throwing caution to the wind, driven by economic compulsions, has turned this vital corridor into a risk zone.
The root cause emerged a few months ago when police restricted three-wheeler movement between Sector 18 and Atta Peer. This restriction, aimed at managing heavy pedestrian footfall in the market areas, has inadvertently created a new problem.
"A one-kilometre journey has turned into a 10-kilometre ordeal," said Suresh Kumar, an e-rickshaw driver.
"Earlier, we could freely take U-turns at Sector 18 or Atta Market. Now, we're forced to take an extended route via Film City, DLF Mall, and under the elevated road."
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The extended route means longer travel times, higher fuel consumption, and fewer daily trips.
"Passengers won't pay extra or accept delays. This affects our daily earnings significantly," said another driver, explaining why many choose the risky shortcut of wrong-side driving at this spot.
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The approximately one-kilometre stretch connecting Sector 37 and Botanical Garden to GIP Mall is now a constant battleground between traffic rules and economic necessity. Throughout the day, three-wheelers pick up commuters from the mall and drop them at the metro station, flouting traffic rules.
Deputy commissioner of police (traffic) Lakhan Singh Yadav has initiated action, with 20 drivers fined Rs 2,000 each and two vehicles seized for documentation issues.
"Strict action will continue against violators," the DCP warned.
With nearly 38,000 three-wheelers serving as crucial last-mile connectivity in the absence of city buses, the issue affects thousands of daily commuters.
"E-rickshaws are essential for metro connectivity, but this situation needs a solution," said Kumar Gaurav, a regular metro user.
Drivers are now demanding either a reconsideration of the restrictions or a dedicated U-turn facility at the spot. Until then, e-rickshaw are likely to throw caution to the wind and continue to drive on the wrong side in the absence of enough cops.
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