The project has remained a non-starter due to fund shortage
Kochi: With the monsoon season set to start, a majority of the 250 solar power-enabled traffic signal lamps across the state will become non-functional.
Given that the optimum storage capacity is limited to just two days, the lamps become non-functional if the sky remains overcast for 48 hours, a usual phenomenon during the monsoon season.
“To overcome the problem, the Traffic Police has suggested that the storage capacity of solar-power-enabled signal lamps be enhanced or the option of using conventional power in such lamps be added. However, the project has remained a non-starter due to fund shortage,” said S Gopakumar, in-charge of solar-panel signal works, KELTRON – the implementing agency.
In the previous years, the problem derailed traffic in cities like Thiruvananthapuram. “We found the process of enhancing storage capacity a costlier exercise and hence decided to add the option of using KSEB power in these lamps which would work out to Rs 5,000 for each post. However, the work is yet to be started due to fund shortage faced by the Traffic Police department,” the official said.
Meanwhile, Kochi city which is yet to get a solar power-enabled traffic signal system is experiencing a problem of different kind. “Here we have nearly 50 traditional signal lamps run by KSEB power. However a majority of the lamps are not functional. This, after private agencies entrusted with the annual maintenance contract, are refusing to carry out the works citing outstanding dues,” said Sajan Koikkal, ACP, Traffic East.
The signal posts at Container Road Terminal (the most mishap-prone area), Cheranellor, Olimukhal, Madavana Jn and Judges Avenue Road among others were currently non-functional, he said.
The city is yet to get the solar power-enabled traffic system despite the City Traffic police writing to higher authorities.
