Meghalaya Police Launches Traffic Helplines to Reduce Congestion and Strengthen Emergency Response

In an effort to mitigate chronic traffic congestion and enhance emergency response mechanisms in Shillong, the Meghalaya Police has introduced a set of seven branch-specific traffic control helpline numbers for different areas within the East Khasi Hills District. This initiative is a strategic move to streamline traffic management and ensure quicker response times during disruptions or emergencies.

Superintendent of Police Vivek Syiem announced the launch on Thursday, emphasizing that the primary goal is to reduce delays caused by traffic incidents and coordinate better during emergency situations. He noted that Shillong, much like other hill stations, faces unique challenges due to its hilly terrain and narrow roads. These geographical features make the city particularly prone to traffic snarls, especially during peak hours and in adverse weather conditions. According to Syiem, the helplines are a significant step toward creating a responsive, efficient, and modern traffic management system.

Under this system, each traffic control branch in the district now has its own dedicated helpline number. This decentralised approach allows citizens to directly report roadblocks, vehicle breakdowns, accidents, or unsafe road conditions to the specific traffic unit responsible for that area. The initiative is expected to speed up the response process, reduce dependency on centralized coordination, and allow for faster clearance of traffic bottlenecks.

The helpline numbers for each branch are:

• Laban Traffic Branch: 69093-96411

• Laitumkhrah Traffic Branch: 69093-96412

• Rynjah Traffic Branch: 69093-96413

• Lumdiengjri Traffic Branch: 69093-96414

• Sadar Traffic Branch: 69093-96415

• Madanrting Traffic Branch: 69093-96416

• Mawlai Traffic Branch: 69093-96417

These contact numbers have been set up to encourage immediate public reporting of traffic-related issues. Police authorities are urging residents and commuters to use these helplines whenever they encounter traffic hazards or disruptions.

Shillong has long been plagued by persistent traffic problems, especially in its central business districts and densely populated residential neighborhoods. The city’s roadways, many of which are narrow and winding, are often unable to accommodate the growing number of vehicles, leading to regular gridlocks. The problem is further aggravated during school hours, festive seasons, and rainy weather.

The Meghalaya Police believes that this new helpline system will help address these long-standing concerns. By decentralizing traffic issue reporting and empowering each traffic branch with independent response capabilities, the city hopes to improve its traffic flow and public safety in the long run. Additionally, the move reflects the department's intent to adopt more tech-enabled, citizen-centric approaches to urban governance.

In conclusion, the helpline initiative is being seen as a forward-thinking, practical solution to Shillong’s traffic woes. It aims not only to enhance emergency response but also to build public trust and cooperation in maintaining smoother and safer roads.