Police may curb processions on roads, seek suggestions

Nikhil Bhardwaj
Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, February 20

Come this March, the Ludhiana police will be introducing curbs on the practice of taking out religious processions, such as nagar kirtans and shobha yatras, to prevent traffic snarls and litter on roads.

The police have sought suggestions from the city residents in this regard. After studying all suggestions, the initiative is likely to be taken by next month.

“A large number of shobha yatras, nagar kirtans and other religious processions are taken out in the city these days. Every festival has four or five of such processions. We are thinking to curb this practice. What are your views,” says a post of the Ludhiana police on its official Facebook page and Twitter handle.

This query has been liked and shared by hundreds of people who also gave their feedback to the police. Most of the people appreciated the step and urged the police to curb the practice.

‘Much needed step’

‘Much needed step. In my opinion, all such activities should be stopped immediately, specially where roads are blocked. These should only be allowed outside the city in big grounds where public faces no problem at all (whether it’s a political rally or religious activity),” comments Yogi Bhandari.

Satbir Singh Bindra writes: “Indeed, it’s the need of the day. But it’s an emotional and again religious matter. It should be done in a very sensible way. People and religious committees should be made aware. Indeed, it’s a waste of money and time. We can use this money to build schools and hospitals”.

Gagnish Khurana writes: “it is a great effort. Order them to hold processions from 4 am to 6 am only. There should be only two-hour window when traffic is bare minimum. They should be instructed to ensure cleanliness of roads after the procession within a time frame and to use no high-volume sound systems.

Neeraj says: “Absolutely okay. Fix a place where everyone can get together and celebrate the festivities.”

Mandeep Singh says: “Need to control all kinds of noise pollution caused even during day time, and it should not be allowed as it’s examination time for students.”

“No need of shobha yatras, nagar kirtans. These should be held in respective religious places. Why to block the roads with yatras and roadside langars. It can be helpful to ensure smooth traffic and clean roadside,” comments Sourabh Sharma.