As October 3rd prepares to write history in the pages of Hindustan, we prepare to shift to the Games mode, accommodating all the adjustment coming our way.
Here, I make you catch the glimpse of cat-rat rush before you howl in the spirit of games.
Cars entering from any of the 13 major borders may have to face delays as Delhi Police plans to intensify checking of both private and commercial vehicle but the traffic police and transport department have clarified that there is no plan to block entry of cars which are registered in states other than Delhi.
The movement of commercial vehicles like trucks, tempos and goods autos will be restricted on all roads in the vicinity of the venues. During the day, commercial vehicles will not be allowed on some roads. With this, on about 180 km of roads across the city, the extreme right lane will be converted into a dedicated Games lane, meant for use only by athletes and delegates. Hence, the roads will be blocked at the time of their movement.
The restrictions will begin on Sept 20 and continue till Oct 14. Those entering the lanes will have to pay Rs 2,000 as fine.
So, inspect your way else get all set to hurt your pockets. Sob! Sob!
Not only this, Government plans to shift 1,600 Blue lines to rural areas from Sept 25. On routes near Games venues, only low-floor DTC buses will be allowed to ply.
I wonder how Delhi will give the impression of being our same city without BLUELINES!
However, those headed for the event will be given a free ride as DTC will run special shuttle services from 52 focal points. Whoohoo!
These buses will assemble at five hubs ISBT Anna Vicars, Kashmere Gate, Nehru Place, Shivaji terminal and Dhaula Kuan from where another set of buses will be operated at regular intervals..
So, are you a shopaholic? Hang on! As you may have to scrap shopping plans on the days earmarked for the opening and closing ceremonies. Markets around the main Games venues will be asked to stay shut on the two main days and close early in the evening on all other days to prevent congestion and ensure better security.
Between for both school and college students, the Commonwealth Games has been pronounced a long holiday as the break will extend from October 1-17 and October 1-15, respectively. But,
The same does not concern our legal system as the traffic police’s proposal to shut down courts during the Games to reduce congestion didn’t find favor with the Court authorities. Thus, the Supreme Court and high court will stay closed only between October 9-13, which is the routine annual break. The lower courts have no such break and hence will stay open.
It’s a call for a long break for Vendors and hawkers as MCD and NDMC are coming down heavily on vegetable vendors, illegal dhabas and other street food vends near Games venues and in markets. The agencies will allow only licensed vendors, which account for only 5-10 percent of the unorganized sector. So, are you ready to give up lip smacking golgappas, chapatti aaluchat and khatta meetha paan? Sigh!
While we jump, cry, yap and swing, the 80,000-strong force of Delhi Police will be out on the streets. More than half the force will be on Games duty, but this doesn’t mean that Delhi will be left unguarded. About 12,000 new recruits will be the replacements. We are protected!
So, let’s go oblivion to alterations, modifications and be drenched in the sweat of passion.
And, why not? After all it’s time to get sporty!!!
