Ahmedabad prepares for Chhath Puja celebrations, Surat and Ahmedabad face severe air quality challenges, City Traffic Police deploys AI-powered interceptor vans, and more. Stay updated with the latest developments in this Ahmedabad News Roundup.

Preparations are in full swing in Ahmedabad for the Chhath Puja festival, which will be celebrated on the 7th of November. The festival, a significant occasion for lakhs of North Indians, will see major gatherings at various locations, including the Sabarmati Riverfront near Indira Bridge.

The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) is coordinating efforts with North Indian organizations to ensure a smooth celebration. The ghat area is being cleaned, and garbage removal from the Sabarmati River is underway. An estimated 20,000 to 30,000 devotees are expected to perform rituals at the riverfront.

Over the past ten days, from the 24th of October to the 3rd of November, Surat in Gujarat has emerged as the most polluted city in the state, with Ahmedabad not far behind.

On the 26th of October, just before Diwali, Surat recorded its highest AQI of 281, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Ahmedabad also experienced a significant spike in pollution, registering an AQI of 231 on the same day. Certain areas in Ahmedabad reported even higher levels, raising concerns about respiratory issues among residents.

Ahmedabad Traffic Police is set to deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) equipped interceptor vans. These vans will patrol areas lacking traffic signals and those experiencing heavy congestion. Equipped to detect and document 14 different traffic violations, they will issue e-memos for offences such as not wearing helmets, overspeeding, and signal violations.

Five AI interceptor vans have already been commissioned. Violators will receive e-memos directly at their registered addresses, streamlining enforcement and promoting better adherence to traffic rules.

IRCTC has introduced the 'Gujarat-The Divine Saurashtra' tour package for the winter holiday season. Departing from Kolkata, the package covers key destinations including Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Dwarka, and Somnath. Designed to offer a blend of spiritual and scenic experiences, it highlights Gujarat's rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes.