Heavy vehicles prohibited between 7 am to 11 am and 3 pm to 8 pm
Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse while addressing media persons in Belagavi. Photo: Louis Rodrigues
In a major decision to control the movement of heavy traffic in Belagavi city, police have banned entry of heavy vehicles, including private buses, from Goa and Karwar via Belagavi city during peak hours from January 27.
According to an order issued by Belagavi Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse, heavy vehicles are now prohibited from entering the city from 7 am to 11 am, and from 3 pm to 8 pm, coinciding with opening and closing of school and office hours from January 27.
The decision that was to be implemented with immediate effect has been now deferred due to the continuous holidays and the Republic Day celebrations.
Speaking to media persons, Police Commissioner Bhushan Borse said Belagavi city has seen a significant rise in traffic congestion and road accidents in recent months.
“Various groups in the city have been appealing to police to act decisively against heavy vehicle movement which, they said, was contributing to frequent mishaps, especially near school zones during peak hours,” said Borse.
“In response, the Belagavi City Police have taken a decision of implementing time-based restrictions on heavy vehicles within city limits during critical hours to enhance road safety.”
Vehicle movement in Belagavi has surged during morning and evening peak periods when students, parents, office-goers, and other commuters traverse the main thoroughfares. Police noted that accidents involving heavy trucks and buses have led to serious injuries and even loss of life, leading to heightened public anxiety.
Authorities have warned that violators of the new order will face legal action under Section 177 of the Motor Vehicles Act.
In 2025, police registered 1,001 cases for no-entry violations, resulting in fines totalling Rs 4,17,050.
Borse has reiterated that strict enforcement will continue and has urged drivers to comply with the directive.
The police have appealed for cooperation from commercial transport operators from Karnataka and neighbouring States, stating that adherence to traffic rules is critical to preventing further mishaps on city roads.
Resident groups had repeatedly highlighted these concerns in meetings with the Police Commissioner’s office, calling for targeted restrictions and enforcement.
