Improved Road Safety in Chandigarh: Elimination of Two High-Risk Locations
Chandigarh's Remaining Troublesome Traffic Zones: A Deep Dive
Let's take a closer look at the three black spots still causing havoc in the city:
- Kalagram Light Point: A Cyclist's Nightmare
This spot has seen its share of tragedies, with seven fatalities in the last three years. The lack of a separate cycle track near the petrol pump forces cyclists to mix with fast-moving traffic. Vehicles exiting the petrol station merge directly into traffic lanes, blocking the left slip road. Moreover, there are missing road markings at several spots.
To resolve these issues, engineers suggest several short-term solutions, such as installing rumble strips, proper road markings, and extending refuge islands to regulate petrol pump exits. A long-term solution includes the construction of a segregated pedestrian and cycle track, a slow carriageway along Madhya Marg, widening of slip roads, and proposing a fourth arm at the intersection to improve traffic flow.
- Airport Light Point: A Hotspot for Speed and Recklessness
Eight unfortunate lives have been claimed at this intersection in the last three years due to speeding, reckless driving, and drunken driving. Lack of appropriate markings and the proximity of local bus stops to service lane entries exacerbate the problem. Rumble strips on service lanes, a long-term solution such as grade separation through an overbridge or underpass, and improving traffic flow from Airport Light Point to Hallomajra Light Point are proposed measures.
- Poultry Farm Chowk: Plagued by Heavy Traffic and Missing Facilities
Located on Chandigarh-Ambala National Highway No. 5, Poultry Farm Chowk experiences heavy vehicular movement, especially trucks and buses, and saw ten deaths in the last three years. This spot lacks dedicated footpaths and cycle tracks, posing a significant risk to pedestrians and cyclists. Short-term solutions suggested include widening roads, creating new exit points, and closing certain entry points. Long-term solutions involve constructing an underpass to channel through traffic and proposing a new road connection to ease traffic congestion.
The city is making progress, having successfully removed two black spots recently. However, the focus remains on eliminating risks at Kalagram, Airport Light Point, and Poultry Farm Chowk. The authorities are working tirelessly to implement these proposed solutions for a safer commute.
- The cricket industry could consider investing in the construction of dedicated cycling infrastructure near the Kalagram Light Point to ensure a safer commute for cyclists who share the road with fast-moving traffic.
- In the finance sector, considering the number of accidents at Poultry Farm Chowk involving trucks and buses, insurance companies might want to assess risk factors and adjust their premiums accordingly.
- The general news media might want to cover the persistent traffic problems at Airport Light Point, focusing on the dangers posed by speeding, reckless driving, and drunken driving, in an effort to raise awareness and stimulate change in driving habits.
