Siliguri, 13th January: The Siliguri Municipal Corporation (SMC) has decided to implement strict measures to curb the reckless movement of dumper trucks and other heavy vehicles within the city. As part of this initiative, Mayor Gautam Deb on Tuesday held a crucial meeting with representatives of various vehicle drivers’ unions.
The meeting was attended by police, the Municipal Commissioner, Senior Municipal Officials, and representatives of different drivers’ organisations. It was decided that fixed time restrictions would be imposed on the movement of heavy vehicles within city limits. As per the decision, dumpers will be allowed to operate only between 8 pm and 9 am. No dumper movement will be permitted during daytime hours.
However, in cases where dumpers are required for government work during the day, prior permission from the police will be mandatory. Such vehicles will also be required to carry official authorisation documents displayed clearly.
The civic body has also decided to install height barriers at several key locations to restrict the entry of dumpers and heavy vehicles into inner city roads. Drivers’ unions were informed that all dumper drivers must possess valid driving licences.
Mayor Deb further stated that a high-level meeting involving all stakeholders would be convened soon to review issues related to dumper trucks and heavy vehicle movement. Addressing concerns over the Eastern Bypass, he noted that encroachments by shops had narrowed the roadway, leading to frequent accidents. He added that immediate eviction drives would be carried out to clear encroachments and restore road safety.