AP: 1,000 vehicles cross toll plazas per hour

The flow of vehicles on NH No. 65 increased eightfold compared to normal days, significantly disrupting traffic movement. At Panthangi toll plaza near Choutuppal in Yadadri-Bhongir district, vehicles were piled up from the early hours. Out of the 16 toll gates, 10 were designated for vehicles heading towards Vijayawada from Hyderabad, while six gates were allocated for the reverse direction.

Authorities reported that approximately 1,000 vehicles per hour were passing through the Hyderabad-Vijayawada side on Saturday, compared to the usual 150 to 200 vehicles per hour on normal days. The rush is expected to intensify late Saturday night and into Sunday morning.

The high congestion caused bumper-to-bumper traffic on NH No. 65 from Abdullapurmet to Kothaduem and at Choutuppal. Similarly, Korlaphad toll plaza in Nalgonda district saw heavy vehicle traffic from early Saturday morning, slowing movement considerably. Of the 12 toll gates, seven were reserved for Vijayawada-bound vehicles from Hyderabad, and five for the reverse direction.

Police efforts to maintain smooth vehicle flow included deploying toying vehicles and ambulances at toll plazas and selected locations along NH No. 65. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to manage the increased traffic and ensure the safety of all commuters during the festive season.