Traffic flow on Kollam bypass to be smoother

Many accidents have been reported on the stretch

With the Motor Vehicles Department (MVD) registering a large number of cases after the commissioning of the Kollam bypass, a high-level meeting held at the District Collectorate has decided to implement a volley of measures to streamline traffic flow and curtail violations on the 13-km stretch.

“Through speed restrictions and an efficient signalling system, the bypass will be made accident-free,” said Minister J. Mercykutty Amma, who chaired the meeting here recently.

Limiting speed

The Minister proposed to limit the speed on the bypass connecting Mevaram and Kavand to 60 kmph and take strict measures to prohibit overtaking.

“Bus bays should be positioned accurately and stoppages should not be allowed on places other than authorised points. Street vendors should not be permitted on the stretch and parking restrictions should be introduced,” she said.

The Minister instructed the RTO to relocate the bus stop at Kallumthazham and directed the officials concerned to acquire land to widen the narrow lanes leading to the bypass. M. Naushad, MLA, suggested adding more signboards and launching extensive traffic awareness initiatives.

Since January 15, the day Kollam bypass was thrown open for traffic, a number of accidents have been reported. According to officials, most of the incidents are caused by reckless driving and speeding.

District Collector S. Karthikeyan said strong action would be taken against traffic offenders and instructed the officials to impose a fine of ₹1,000 for speeding.

District Police Chief P.K. Madhu said the department would strengthen surveillance and there would be 24x7 monitoring to find violations. Superintendent of Police, Rural, B. Ashokan said more officers would be deployed on major junctions.

Other suggestions

Construction of service roads and dividers, exploring the possibility of underpasses, prohibiting auto and taxi parking, extending street lights, installing modern blinking lights, and construction of waiting shelters are the other suggestions that came up during the meeting.

Subcollector A. Alexander, Additional District Magistrate B. Radhakrishnan, Deputy Mayor Vijaya Francis, RTO D. Sajith and District Information Officer C. Ajoy also attended the meeting.