E-Rickshaws Reaching the Border: NH in Sonauli Faces Traffic Jams and Encroachment, Disorder Extends to No-Man’s Land

Sonauli/Maharajganj. Unregulated movement of e-rickshaws has emerged as a growing concern at the India–Nepal international and highly sensitive border in Sonauli. The presence of e-rickshaws near the India Gate, close to the No-Man’s Land, is not only disrupting traffic but also causing frequent congestion for tourists, commuters, and local residents traveling between India and Nepal.

According to local sources, a large number of e-rickshaw drivers wait for passengers by parking their vehicles along the roadside and, in many cases, on the main carriageway of the National Highway. This obstructs the smooth flow of traffic, often resulting in long traffic jams.

Local Trade Association President Subhash Jaiswal said that the operation of e-rickshaws so close to the No-Man’s Land and the international border is also a matter of security concern. He alleged that despite the seriousness of the issue, the concerned departments and traffic authorities have failed to take effective measures to address the problem.

Town Trade Association President Ajay alias Bablu Singh alleged that increasing encroachment on the National Highway and the disorderly operation of e-rickshaws have created chaos on a daily basis. The situation becomes even worse during holidays and peak tourist seasons when cross-border movement is at its highest.

Local traders have urged the administration to establish designated parking and waiting stands for e-rickshaws in the border area, launch regular drives against illegally parked vehicles on the National Highway and near the No-Man’s Land, and implement effective traffic management measures to ensure smooth movement and provide relief to travelers from recurring traffic congestion.