The automatic signal system installed on the Moorad Bridge to control the simultaneous entry of heavy vehicles from either side is proving to be a failure with the continuous signal light violations on the part of drivers.
Despite the presence of home guards and the police, the drivers are found jumping the signals and stalling the entire traffic after getting struck in the middle of the bridge. The signal light was installed here after the Motor Vehicle department found the increasing incidents of vehicles getting trapped in the middle of the bridge.
People from the area say that it is the private bus drivers who flout the rules.
The most to suffer from this action are the ambulance drivers as there no other means available to cross the hurdle.
Often heated exchanges take place between the drivers. By the time the police reach the spot, there would be a big traffic snarl-up on the entire route.
“Many a time, we have seen the traffic police or home guard posted on either side of the bridge remaining mute spectators without restricting the entry of heavy vehicles, ” says N. Nissar, a resident of Vadakara. He says that no deterrent punishment or serious fine is imposed on the violators encouraging them to repeat the offence.
Lane discipline violations by drivers of light motor vehicles too worsen the issue. As there are no restrictions on the entry of LMVs from either side, most of the drivers do reckless overtaking.
When contacted, a police official from Vadakara said the police had already given instructions to the home guards posted near the bridge to strictly watch the attempts to jump signals.
“Arrangements have also made to put a highway police patrolling team there to trace the violators,”he added.
