By Firstdespatch Desk Sep 25, 2026
Agartala, Sept 25 (FD) Tripura Traffic Police is introducing stricter regulations for vehicle passes and strengthening traffic management arrangements ahead of the Durga Puja celebrations, as nearly 16 lakh e-challans issued since 2020 reportedly remain unpaid, involving accumulated penalties of around Rs 160 crore.
Traffic Superintendent of Police Kanta Jangir said on Friday that vehicles with outstanding traffic fines would not be issued passes for entering designated no-entry zones during the festive period. The decision follows directions from Chief Minister Manik Saha.
Around 6,500 vehicle passes were issued last year. This year, however, vehicle owners with pending traffic challans will be excluded from the pass system. The department is also shifting towards a fully digital pass-issuance process to ensure greater transparency and streamline traffic regulation.
Jangir warned that any attempt to duplicate, tamper with or misuse vehicle passes would invite legal action. Such passes could be cancelled, and the applicants concerned could be barred from obtaining passes in the future. She emphasised that the facility was primarily intended for emergency services.
The Traffic SP said the state collects approximately Rs 20 crore to Rs 30 crore annually through traffic fines, while accumulated unpaid penalties have reached nearly Rs 160 crore, highlighting the scale of traffic violation-related dues.
As part of the Puja traffic management plan, no-entry restrictions will remain in force from 5 pm to 1 am between October 17 and 20 in designated areas. Two additional road stretches have also been brought under the restrictions this year.
Dedicated terminal points have been earmarked for buses, minibuses, jeeps, autorickshaws and light motor vehicles. During the restricted hours, these vehicles will be allowed to operate only up to their designated terminals to regulate vehicular movement and prevent congestion in crowded areas.
Cargo vehicles will face separate restrictions from 5 pm to 6 am. Proposed terminal locations for such vehicles include Amtali Bypass, Khayerpur Bypass, Madhab Bari, Lichubagan and Border Golchakkar.
To strengthen enforcement and ensure smooth traffic flow, drop gates, CCTV surveillance systems and additional traffic personnel will be deployed at key locations across the city.
Authorities are also making arrangements for emergency corridors and dedicated parking facilities to facilitate the movement of rail and air passengers during the festive rush.
A comprehensive Durga Puja traffic advisory detailing no-entry zones, designated terminal points, parking facilities and emergency routes will be issued shortly, officials said. FD JK