Patna Introduces Colour-Coded Zoning System to Tackle Traffic Congestion from April 2025

By Vishwapati

Patna: The district administration has unveiled a new strategy to alleviate traffic congestion in Patna, the capital city. Set to take effect from April 1, 2025, the plan divides the city into three distinct zones: Green, Yellow, and Blue. This initiative aims not only to manage traffic more effectively but also to enhance the travel experience for commuters. Under the new colour-coded system, the operation of autos and e-rickshaws in each zone will be assigned specific routes, primarily focusing on the eastern and central areas of Patna. These vehicles will operate across 18 key locations. Currently, approximately 6,550 autos operate in this zone, but this number will be reduced to 5,240. Key areas include Patna Junction, Lohanipur, Khemnichak, and Kankarbagh.

Yellow Zone:
This zone encompasses the western part of Patna. Around 25,000 passengers travel through this area daily. Previously, 4,350 autos were permitted to operate here, but this number will now be limited to 3,480.

Green Zone:
Major locations in this zone include Rajabazar, Ashiana, and Jagdev Path.

Blue Zone:
Autos and e-rickshaws will be restricted to just seven locations in this zone, including GPO, Gardnibagh, and Anisabad.

To further streamline operations, dedicated parking spaces are being established at key locations such as Cheena Kothi, Gandhi Maidan Rain Basera, GPO, and Agamkuan. This move is expected to eliminate the issue of haphazard parking and contribute to reducing traffic congestion.

Expected Benefits:

1. Reduced Traffic Jams: Vehicles will move in a more organised manner, easing congestion.
2. Improved Passenger Experience: Commuters will find it easier to identify their designated travel zones.
3. Enhanced Transport Efficiency: Regulating the movement of autos and e-rickshaws will minimise the likelihood of traffic bottlenecks.
4. Increased Road Safety: Designated parking spaces will reduce the problem of vehicles parked chaotically on roads.

The new zoning system is anticipated to provide significant relief from traffic congestion in Patna. However, its effectiveness remains to be seen, particularly given the city’s rapidly growing population and the staggering increase in private vehicle ownership, which has risen by 203 times in recent years.

(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)