The Delhi High Court has taken a strong stand on traffic congestion in Karol Bagh. On Wednesday, the bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela criticized the Public Works Department (PWD) for failing to act on a proposal.
The Delhi Police had submitted the plan in August 2024 and sent a reminder in July 2025. The proposal suggested installing boom barriers and using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras to ease traffic. Despite these requests, the PWD did nothing, citing a lack of funds. The judges rejected this excuse and highlighted the long delay. “It has taken months. Departments have been playing football with each other to decide where funds have to come from. It is absurd,” the bench observed.
The court ordered the PWD to file an affidavit showing what steps it had taken on the police’s letters. It also directed the Delhi Police and the Transport Department to enforce traffic rules strictly. They must ensure that commercial vehicles do not enter, park, or unload goods in Karol Bagh between 10 am and 8 pm. This order followed a meeting held on August 19. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) must also submit an affidavit confirming whether it has carried out any anti-encroachment drives in the last three months.
Karol Bagh is a crowded shopping hub with narrow lanes and heavy pedestrian traffic. The lack of proper traffic management has created chaos for both traders and customers. The use of boom barriers and ANPR cameras could help reduce the congestion significantly.
The court’s intervention shows the urgency of quick action. It reminded departments that a shortage of funds should not delay public works. Instead of shifting responsibility, agencies must work together to solve pressing civic issues.
Residents and shopkeepers in Karol Bagh now expect real change. The speed and seriousness with which the authorities respond will decide if these long-standing problems finally see a solution.
