Passport office shift eases traffic woes on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg

In a significant move for professionals working on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, including media houses, the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) at Herald House in ITO has moved to Videocon Tower in Jhandewalan. The new PSK will start functioning from June 24.

Past traffic challenges

The decision to house the PSK at Herald House led to major traffic problems, as the area was plagued by illegal parking. Vehicles were often parked in a haphazard manner, blocking legitimate parking spaces for office-goers. The resulting congestion turned a one-way street into a two-way one, leading to daily chaos.

Unforeseen consequences

These problems arose due to the lack of proper parking infrastructure assessment before the PSK was opened. It is unclear how the necessary clearances for the location were obtained.

Impact on local businesses

Several shops and vendors started operating in the narrow lane near the PSK, complicating traffic flow even further. This shifting means that these businesses, though financially impacted, will have to find new locations. Similarly, parking operators, despite losing revenue, contributed to the chaotic conditions on the road.

Details of the new location

The new PSK office is now located on the ground floor of Videocon Tower in Jhandewalan, as indicated on the passport department's website. Visitors are advised to note the new address for their appointments.

Conclusion

Though Tata Consultancy Services, which manages PSK operations, and traffic officials have not commented on the move, the change is expected to relieve the traffic problems already prevailing on Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg.