Sambalpur, Oct. 3: Haphazard parking of vehicles along the city roads hinders traffic flow in Sambalpur.

“Several roads in the city are narrow and this has been a major reason behind traffic congestion in the city. And haphazard parking along the narrow roads compounds the trouble. The commuters often face severe traffic chaos,” said Rakesh Sahu, a local resident.

“One can see vehicles parked haphazardly on Laxmi Talkies Chhak to Golebazar Chhak Road, Church Chhak to Laxmi Talkies Chhak Road, VSS Marg and many other areas in the city,” said Rakesh.

“There are parking spots on some roads. But people park their vehicles outside these areas,” said Ashis Jha, another local resident.

“During peak hours, the problem becomes more acute. One would hesitate to travel in four-wheelers because of traffic congestion. The authorities should facilitate smooth flow of traffic in the city. The traffic department should take regular rounds to check unauthorised parking of vehicles especially along the main roads and market area,” said Gokul Pradhan, a citizen.

Sambalpur traffic in-charge B.B. Naik, said: “Lack of awareness is a reason behind this problem. We are making regular rounds to check chaos and rash driving in the city.”