Drivers and bikers driving in the wrong lane on the Ghodbunder (GB) Road due to the ongoing Metro work should get ready to face stringent action. The Thane traffic police started a drive this week against such drivers. "Due to the ongoing Metro construction, there are many bikers and motorists who try to drive in the wrong lane, causing traffic jams and even accidents," said Senior Police Inspector Prakash Patil, Kasarvadavli traffic unit, Thane. "To discourage such flouting of traffic rules, we are booking them under Section 279 of the Indian penal code for rash driving," he said. The drive commenced on March 25 and in the last three days, cops have booked over seven people for rash driving on GB road. The construction of Metro IV has been going on on the road since last November last year. Moreover, even the adjoining service roads are occupied as work on a water pipeline and drainage line is on. As a result, many motorists try to take short cuts, which can be fatal. "While booking them, we also ask them to be careful and wait for some time in the traffic instead of taking a shortcut. We will also put signboards warning them of the offence and its punishment. Punishment for rash driving is Rs 1,000 fine and or six-month imprisonment." Thanekars have welcomed this move, saying it will save precious lives. "This is a good initiative by the Thane police as driving in the wrong direction is a major nuisance, especially at Kapurbawdi junction," said Reny Varghese, a resident of Vijay garden, GB Road. "But the authorities should also finish the work on the service road fast so that alternate routes are available to drivers. Morever, the MMRDA and other authorities should coordinate well to avoid traffic congestion," he adds. Kasber Augustine, president, Thane citizens foundation (TCF) also applauded the drive. "There have been many accidents on GB Road since the Metro work began. This drive will ensure the safety of motorists. But before beginning any such drives, authorities should also consult citizens and take their opinion on issues, which may crop up when the project is implemented," he said.

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