Non-functional traffic signals, lack of zebra crossings for pedestrians and absence of traffic policemen at important intersections make it extremely tough for pedestrians and other road users in the city’s southern suburbs.
“Between East Tambaram and Pallikaranai, there are about half-a-dozen traffic signals in addition to police booths. But, many signals do not function properly and traffic policemen remain mute spectators at such places,” said M. Hema, a school teacher in Rajakilpakkam.
“With the road being widened on many stretches of the Velachery Main Road, the lack of signals at the intersections encourages the motorists to drive rashly,” pointed out R. Saravanan of Kamarajapuram. The road narrows near Madambakkam signal, where there is no zebra crossing, and the pedestrian signal stand as ‘monumental piece,’ he said. Three people were killed in accidents on Velachery Main Road between Gowriwakkam and East Tambaram in March. “The chance of accidents occurring at the intersections is high unless traffic policemen take immediate steps,” Mr. Saravanan added. Even in those signals that do work, the lights for pedestrians to cross the road do not glow.
Traffic police officers said that they were ensuring regular maintenance of all their signals. There were various reasons the signals did not function and remedial measures would be taken up as soon as possible.