Nagpur: From leading successful traffic reforms to sustaining injuries during communal riots, IITian-turned-IPS officer Archit Chandak’s 27-month tenure as Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) in Nagpur was marked by relentless dedication, innovation, and personal sacrifice. Recently transferred to Akola as Superintendent of Police, Chandak leaves behind a legacy that redefined policing in his hometown.
A native of Shankar Nagar and an alumnus of Bhavan’s Bhagwandas Purohit Vidya Mandir, Chandak’s journey from IIT-Delhi to Nagpur Police Headquarters was driven by a deep-rooted sense of duty towards his city. During his tenure, he held charge of the Economic Offences Wing (EOW), Cyber Cell, and Traffic Department.
Sweat for Order: Seamless Traffic During ODI Match
One of his most lauded achievements came during the India vs England ODI match at Jamtha’s VCA Stadium on February 6, 2025. Anticipating massive traffic snarls—common during past matches—Chandak personally supervised a detailed traffic management plan. Over 2,000 police personnel were deployed, and strategic diversions, disciplined parking, and effective on-ground coordination ensured smooth flow on Wardha Road.
Unlike earlier events where spectators were stuck in traffic for hours, this time the roads remained largely congestion-free—even during mass exit after the match—earning applause from citizens and cricket fans alike.
Bold Decisions: Crackdown on Private Bus Chaos
In another decisive move, DCP Chandak proposed shifting private travel bus stops outside city limits to ease daily congestion. Following over 100 citizen complaints, he chaired a joint meeting with top civic and police officials. A 12-hour traffic survey revealed that around 1,600 private buses operate daily, often halting at unauthorized locations like Chhatrapati Square and Dighori Square.
Chandak’s proposal aims to relocate these operations to six planned terminals outside city limits—bringing long-term relief to Nagpur’s choked junctions.
More Action, Fewer Accidents: Data-Driven Policing
Under Chandak’s leadership, the first quarter of 2025 saw a 65% rise in traffic challans compared to the same period in 2024—rising from 2.73 lakh to 4.52 lakh. This strict enforcement directly contributed to a 22% drop in road accidents and an 18% decline in fatalities.
Helmet violations alone surged from 1.55 lakh to over 3.21 lakh, reflecting increased focus on road safety. The Footpath Freedom Initiative cracked down on encroachments, while night nakabandis and Mission Jeevan Raksha improved visibility and safety at accident-prone zones.
Digital Policing: Social Media as Surveillance Tool
Even with limited functioning CCTVs, Chandak empowered the traffic police to harness citizen vigilance on social media. Nearly 500 incidents flagged by “cyberhawks” were acted upon, including viral videos of youths engaging in dangerous stunts or illegal modifications. Fines were swiftly issued, and vehicles seized—proving that digital policing can be a force multiplier.
Blood for Peace: Injured During Mahal Riots
Chandak’s dedication went beyond administrative duties. On March 17, 2025, during communal riots in the Mahal area, he sustained a ligament injury while helping control violent mobs. As stones flew and chaos spread, Chandak—along with three other DCPs—stood at the frontlines to restore order. His injury became symbolic of the personal risk he bore for Nagpur’s peace.
A Legacy That Inspires:
Chandak’s unique combination of academic brilliance and street-level grit has made him a role model for aspiring civil servants. His tenure demonstrated how local roots, when paired with national service, can deliver transformative results. As he takes charge as Superintendent of Police in Akola, Nagpur salutes one of its own—a boy who truly gave his blood and sweat for his city.
