Tamil Nadu - Chennai   

Parallel corridors a possible solution to gridlock

K.T. Sangameswaran

CHENNAI : A systematic and careful long-term plan can solve the traffic problem in Chennai, which has seen an increase in vehicle population, but no corresponding improvement in infrastructure, feels N.S. Srinivasan, a traffic expert.

The parallel corridor concept, introduced in cities such as Thiruvananthapuram and New Delhi, which helps in thinning traffic on arterial roads, is a possible solution, points out Dr. Srinivasan. For instance, Thiruvananthapuram now has four alternative corridors to reach the city airport. Similarly, in Pune, traffic signals are synchronised in five corridors for faster vehicle movement.

Alternative routes with improved capacity are not totally impossible or costly. Parallel routes can be identified.

Remove encroachments, widen the roads, introduce vehicle-actuated synchronised signals and centralise traffic control using close-circuit television cameras, he says. Flyovers and bridges should form part of the overall system of networking of roads.

The corridor concept should be brought into Chennai, so that people realise that there are alternative routes to reach their destinations. While planning traffic management, the pedestrians should get priority.

Next should come buses as they transport a big chunk of the population. Funds should not be a constraint to development of infrastructure as private partnership is available. We need "to think in a bold manner", Dr. Srinivasan says.

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