In an effort to prevent traffic jams during the bustling Diwali shopping season at the APMC market, the APMC Traffic Police have put several measures in place. With increased footfall of customers and traders to the APMC Market and surrounding shops during the festival period often leads to traffic congestion. To address this issue, the APMC Traffic Police are implementing a range of strategies, and they are calling for cooperation from shoppers and merchants alike.

Police Inspector Vimal Bidve of the APMC Traffic Branch has urged buyers, including consumers and traders, to support these efforts. These measures have been put into action under the directives of Police Commissioner Milind Bharambe and the guidance of Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Tirupati Kakade.

With five markets under the Mumbai Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC), it is renowned as one of the largest markets in Asia. These markets are accompanied by banks, transport establishments, and other agricultural-related facilities. Buyers, both wholesale and retail, from various locations, including Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad, bring their vehicles to this market, often parking them on the road for extended periods during their shopping. This often poses a significant challenge to maintaining smooth traffic flow in the area.   

Thus to tackle the issue of double-parking, Police Inspector Vimal Bidve, informed, “That they have issued warnings to motorists and have even resorted to using jammers to clear obstructions. Additionally, market shopkeepers have been notified to keep the tempo (vehicles carrying materials) in front of their shops, as these often obstruct the traffic. Many traders have cooperated with this request and have shifted their material vehicles to designated parking areas”.

Meanwhile, to tackle the hawker menace Inspector Bidve informed that a letter has been sent to Turbhe Division Officer Bharat Dhande to intervene in this regard.

To further alleviate traffic congestion during Diwali shopping, Inspector Bidve has advised shoppers to utilize designated parking spaces. Shoppers have been encouraged to cooperate with the traffic police by parking their vehicles at specific locations, including Annapurna Chowk to Masala Market, Mathadi Chowk to Punit Corner, and Mathadi Chowk to Akshar Building. By following these guidelines, the APMC Traffic Police aim to ensure a smoother and more hassle-free shopping experience for all during the festive season.