KOZHIKODE: Most of the important junctions in the city have gone hi-tech with timers and signals, CCTV cameras to track violators, renovated roads and zebra crossings. But, how do you discipline drivers? The latest problem is the overspeeding after road repairs and red signal jumping by vehicles, especially buses, who are impatient to wait for the lights to turn green. However, Traffic officials say the violators will get off easily for a few more days, as the painting of zebra crossing is going on and would be completed in two or three days.
"There is a Supreme Court ruling to suspend the licences of those who are jumping red signals. A fine of Rs 500 also would be charged. Policemen are deployed even though there are signals at many of the junctions, as we have received complaints of violations," said P. K. Raju, assistant commissioner, Traffic, North. The official added that the road renovation works, taken up by ULCCS was going on from Sarovaram Biopark and would be finished in a few days. Once the white markings are finished, things would be easier and drivers would be forced to follow it. Intensive checks are being carried out on roads in the city after deaths involving two-wheelers were frequent in the last week.
‘Healthy traffic culture a must to avoid accidents’
The city needs a healthy traffic culture to avoid the frequent accidents, according to experts. A strong traffic advisory committee would help the police to implement the laws more effectively, they say. Noted businessman C.E. Chakkunni said that in the past there was a strong traffic advisory committee which guided the police to manage the city traffic. Legal experts, political leaders, representatives of city organizations and NGOs used to discuss traffic issues and find solutions.
"For the last many years, the advisory committee has been defunct," he added. P.T.S. Unni, a lawyer, told DC that weak enforcement and low fines resulted in widespread traffic violations and subsequent accidents. "In developed countries, the driving licences of traffic violators are suspended. They will have to undergo special training for effective driving and pay huge fines," he added. Mr Unni also said that the police had been assigning the duty of traffic guards to local goons, a temporary arrangement during emergencies, which leads to lawlessness on roads. "The untrained and in some cases uncultured guards take law into their hands and behave rudely without any reason," he pointed out.
