Ganesha returns home, brings city to a halt

According to police, there were more than 2,000 trucks carrying idols. A large number of devotees from all over Delhi came to the ghats — Kudesia, Geeta Colony (Gandhi Nagar Pushta), Geeta, Mayur Vihar Extension (Near DND Flyover), Hathi, Kalindi Kunj, Yamuna Bridge, Vikas Marg, Netaji Subhash Marg and Shyam — for immersion of idols of Lord Ganesha. After which, massive traffic snarls were reported from arterial roads including the Ring Road and intersections of Central, East and North Delhi.

The worst affected areas were Kalindi Kunj, Nizammuddin, Ashram Chowk, Vikas Marg, Laxmi Nagar, ITO, Shaheen Bagh, Paharganj, Sikandra Road and Kashmere Gate.

According to police, traffic remained heavy on Thursday evening on Boulevard Road from Tis Hazari to ISBT, from Noida towards Akshardham, Wazirabad Road, Outer Ring Road in front of ISBT and Kudesia Ghat. Adjoining areas of Shyam Ghat were also affected. Both the carriageways of Shaheen Bagh also witnessed heavy traffic.

“Traffic congestion was also seen in and around Red Fort ground, Ramlila Maidan, Parade ground, Kalindi Kunj, Dangal Maidan, ITO Bridge, Old Delhi railway station, both sides of Wazirabad Sur Ghat, Chhat Pooja Ghat, IP Estate, eastern side of the Yamuna pushtas and thokars. Traffic diversions were put in place for some routes,” said a senior traffic police official.

“The number of trucks were much more than what we expected. More than 20,000 people came out during the evening to go to the ghats. The traffic situation became worse as it was a working day. During the evening peak hour, it became difficult to manage the vehicles. The traffic situation resumed at around 9 pm,” the officer said.

Meanwhile, idol immersion remained peaceful and no untoward incident was reported.