Smart Traffic Management Cuts Dasara Congestion in Vijayawada by 62%

 VIJAYAWADA: Vijayawada city police have recorded a 62 per cent reduction in traffic congestion during the 2026 Dasara festivities compared to last year. This has been attributed to improvement in real-time monitoring, information technology, and coordinated traffic management.

City police commissioner S.V. Raja Sekhara Babu said technology and personnel helped them manage traffic in Vijayawada even as the city had been going through Dasara festivities, national-level Saras exhibition, and Vijayawada Utsav 2.0.

According to information released by the Police department, traffic congestion has fallen from 1,311 km in 2025 to 497 km this year. Average daily congestion has declined from 119 km to 50 km. The number of severe traffic bottlenecks dropped from 221 last year to 38 in 2026, a reduction of about 83 per cent.

Police deployed IT-based systems to manage traffic even as thousands of devotees visited the city for Dasara and the two fairs. The AP ASTraM system enabled real-time traffic monitoring and alerts, helping police personnel identify congestion and take immediate corrective measures.

Managing traffic had been particularly challenging because of large crowds attending the Saras exhibition and the mega Vijayawada carnival. Advance planning and coordinated deployment of personnel helped manage the increase in vehicular movement.

Traffic personnel worked round the clock under the supervision of senior officers to implement diversions around the Saras venue, Eluru Road, the entry gate of Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS), Krishnalanka, and adjoining areas.

The commissioner appreciated Traffic DCP Shirin Begum and other senior officers for coordinating arrangements. On their part, senior officials thanked traffic staff for their service and citizens and devotees for cooperating with police and following traffic regulations during the festivities.