Gridlocks, overloadded vehicles choke Depalpur

Traffic police accused of taking 'payments' to let heavy vehicles pass despite official ban

DEPALPUR:

The unchecked movement of overloaded vehicles in Depalpur has become a major nuisance for residents, with heavy trucks and tractor-trolleys frequently clogging key roads and creating dangerous conditions for motorists and pedestrians.

Locals say that massive trucks and overloaded carriers roam the city's main arteries in broad daylight, leading to daily traffic jams, frequent accidents and rapid deterioration of newly constructed roads.

Hours-long gridlocks at busy intersections have become routine, while imbalanced, overloaded trucks pose constant risks to cars, motorcyclists, and passersby.

Several accidents have already been reported and the strain on roads is causing premature damage, resulting in wasted development funds and added hardship for citizens.

According to sources, some traffic police personnel allegedly accept "payments" at fixed locations and allow overloaded vehicles to pass freely.

Citizens Nasser Mohal, Tariq Phullrwan and Rafiq Denter said that heavy trucks are often parked at Madina Chowk, Kutchery Chowk, Ratta Chowk, and on Galla Mandi Road, completely paralyzing traffic.

Tehsil administration rules state that entry of heavy traffic into the city is strictly prohibited from 7am to 8pm. However, truck driver Muhammad Ghulam Fareed Kathi told Express News that traffic officials "deliberately" allow heavy vehicles to enter urban limits, while new traffic regulations are enforced only against motorcyclists, rickshaw drivers, and car owners.

Citizens have urged immediate action against the officials who allow heavy traffic inside the city despite clear restrictions.

Many residents expressed deep concern, warning that a major accident could occur at any time. They complained that despite repeated protests and complaints, authorities have failed to take effective action.

Residents demanded strict penalties, including FIRs, against drivers who violate traffic rules and against officials who facilitate their entry for illegal gains. They stressed that fines alone are insufficient and that meaningful enforcement is needed to curb the issue.

Attempts by Express News to obtain a comment from the Tehsil In-charge Traffic Police were unsuccessful; the officer refused to give a statement.

Citizens have appealed to the Punjab Chief Minister, the RPO Sahiwal, and the DPO Okara to take urgent notice of the situation, saying the overloaded vehicle problem is no longer just a traffic issue but a symbol of systemic failure and corruption.