Bengaluru Traffic Police Enhances Pedestrian Safety with New Signal Timers
In a significant move to improve pedestrian safety in Bengaluru, the Traffic Police have implemented timers for pedestrian signals at various busy junctions. Despite pedestrian signals being in place, citizens often struggled to cross roads due to the limited green light duration. The new installations are designed to provide clearer guidance and increase safety when navigating high-traffic areas.
The timers are now operational at 165 locations equipped with the advanced AI-powered Adaptive Traffic Control System (ATCS) signals.
Rajeshwari S., a government employee in the Central Business District (CBD), shared her experience: “At junctions like the one near the General Post Office or Balekundri Circle, I often had to navigate the road in sections due to the quick return of traffic. With the new timers, I can easily cross with confidence when I see I have ample time left.”
The Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), M.N. Anucheth, explained the rationale behind the installation, stating, “Our primary aim is pedestrian safety while crossing streets. Additionally, these timers help improve traffic flow. Many pedestrians are often unaware of when signals change, and consistent movement can disrupt traffic. By segregating pedestrian flow, we facilitate better movement for vehicles.”
The timers currently cover the southern and western divisions of the Traffic Police, including key CBD regions. “This is just the first phase of implementing ATCS signals, with plans to expand the project to include more pedestrian timers in the future,” Mr. Anucheth noted.
Significant Reduction in Pedestrian Accidents
Concerns over pedestrian safety in Bengaluru have prompted extensive measures, resulting in a notable decrease in pedestrian accident fatalities this year. Traffic police reported a drop in fatalities compared to previous years, a promising sign for road safety.
In 2022, there were 1,034 pedestrian accidents, with 248 resulting in fatalities. This year, while the total number of pedestrian accidents rose to 1,260 with 284 fatalities, recent statistics indicate a decline in fatal accidents, with 1,069 accidents recorded and 217 fatalities up to November 30.
Mr. Anucheth confirmed the positive trend, stating, “We’ve seen a remarkable decrease in fatal accidents compared to last year.” He attributed this improvement to efforts made in addressing high-risk accident zones, including the installation of pedestrian guard lines, higher medians, and encouraging the use of skywalks.
Published – December 18, 2024 09:56 pm IST
