No Helmet, No Problem: Traffic Rules Go for a Toss on Dashami Day in Guwahati

By: Rana Pratap Saikia

The Motor Vehicles Amendment Act was recently implemented in Assam with the objective of instilling fear in the minds of traffic rule breakers. From higher penalties for driving errors to imprisonment up to one month for racing and speeding; and up to six months for offences relating to accidents, the new Act is expected to dissuade motorists from breaking the rules. However, everything has gone for a toss in Guwahati City on the occasion of Durga Puja, and especially during 'Vijaya Dashami'!

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On the occasion of Dashami, the final day, when the Goddess in being immersed in the river, revelers across Guwahati city can be seen driving their motorbikes and scooters without wearing helmets. Forget the ones riding pillion, the riders themselves seem to have little regard for the rules on this day.

Although October 8 has been declared as a 'dry day' due it being the birth anniversary of Saint Reformer Sankardev, the spirits of the local populace have hardly been daunted, with songs such as 'Chaar Bottle Vodka' being played on full volume from blaring speakers.

Read More: Goddess Durga Bids Adieu to Her Devotees on ‘Vijaya Dashami’

Dashami, which is the final day of the puja, is seen as an occasion for parties, with the devotees bidding adieu to the Goddess with song and dance, and (you guessed it!) alcohol. This year, too, the vibrant crowds have turned the occasion into a grand party, with dancing and singing hordes accompanying the idols to the ghats in great numbers.

[caption id="attachment_42389" align="alignnone" width="660"] Traffic Chaos in Guwahati on the day of 'Vijaya Dashami'[/caption]

Meanwhile, the safety and security concerns on this day of merry-making have been duly noted by the city authorities. “The security arrangements have been made by the Commissioner of Police. There is nothing to worry about", affirmed Kamrup (M) DC Biswajit Pegu. However, he too expressed concern that the traffic situation has to be looked into to ensure that the day passes by without any mishaps.

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