A Prospective On Road Traffic Management in Paryagraj City

This study explores the pressing challenges of road and traffic management in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, a rapidly expanding urban centre of cultural and economic significance. Despite its strong connectivity via four national highways, the city struggles with chronic traffic congestion, declining air quality, insufficient infrastructure, and an underperforming public transport network. Using a mixed-method approach—comprising a survey of 65 residents, field observations, and analysis of official data—the research identifies critical issues such as narrow roads, absence of pedestrian and cycling lanes, illegal parking, street encroachments, and inadequate traffic enforcement. Peak-hour analysis reveals severe congestion in commercial and institutional hubs like Civil Lines, Katra, and Chowk, where traffic volumes exceed road capacity. Air quality measurements indicate pollutant levels (PM₁₀, NO₂, SO₂) consistently above permissible limits, posing significant public health concerns. Public perceptions point to dissatisfaction with enforcement practices, parking availability, and transport reliability, though there is broad support for sustainable reforms. Drawing on successful examples from Surat, Ahmedabad, and Pune, the study recommends integrated measures: strengthening multimodal public transport, implementing Intelligent Traffic Management Systems, expanding infrastructure for non-motorised transport, promoting electric vehicles, and applying congestion pricing. The findings highlight the need for a Comprehensive Urban Mobility Plan that combines participatory governance, sustainable urban design, and advanced technologies, aiming to shift from reactive traffic control to proactive, long-term mobility planning. While offering practical insights, the study recognises limitations in scope and data, suggesting future research should include longitudinal studies, behavioural analysis, and broader stakeholder engagement.