Signboards and Road Safety Indicators to Be Installed on Kanpur Highways & Roads
Kanpur’s highways and roads, Divisional Commissioner Amit Gupta has issued a series of directives aimed at improving safety measures, especially during winter and foggy conditions. The initiative is focused on installing clear and effective signboards, as well as road safety indicators to guide drivers through challenging weather. The move comes as part of an ongoing effort to address road safety concerns and reduce the number of accidents caused by poor visibility, especially in areas prone to dense fog.
One significant measure in this plan is the mandatory installation of retro-reflective tape on tractor-trolleys, which will increase their visibility on the roads, particularly during low light or foggy conditions. The reflective tape will help make these vehicles more noticeable to other drivers, reducing the risk of collisions. Additionally, Gupta has instructed local authorities to remove unlawfully parked vehicles along national highways and expressways, which often block lanes and create hazards for passing traffic. These vehicles not only disrupt traffic flow but also pose significant risks, especially during adverse weather conditions when visibility is already compromised.
On December 21, 2024, during a review meeting, Gupta took a firm stance on enforcing these road safety measures. He directed district officers to ensure that the local road safety committees are actively involved in the enforcement process, ensuring that these directives are implemented at the grassroots level. The divisional commissioner also highlighted the importance of taking strong action against wrong-way drivers, a common cause of accidents on highways. Gupta ordered that first-time offenders be subjected to fines, while repeat offenders would face even more severe penalties, including the lodging of FIRs and the revocation of their driving licenses. This move is designed to send a clear message to motorists that violating traffic laws will not be tolerated and that repeat offenders will face serious consequences. Furthermore, Gupta also addressed the issue of vehicles that have accumulated multiple traffic violations. For these vehicles, he ordered the cancellation of driving licenses, sending a strong signal that traffic violators must be held accountable for their actions, regardless of how many times they break the law. This proactive approach aims to deter reckless driving behaviors and make roads safer for everyone.
As part of the broader strategy to improve enforcement and ensure safer road conditions, Gupta also issued directives to enhance the monitoring of overloaded vehicles. He mandated the use of high-resolution CCTV cameras at toll plazas to capture footage of overloaded vehicles, which often put unnecessary strain on roads and increase the risk of accidents. These vehicles not only damage infrastructure but are also more prone to accidents due to their instability and longer stopping distances. By using CCTV to document violations, authorities will have a clear record of offenses and be able to enforce penalties more effectively. In addition to this, Gupta introduced new restrictions on the use of tanker vehicles along highways and expressways. These vehicles are often used for irrigation purposes, but Gupta has now prohibited their use on highways, advocating for the installation of pipeline systems to ensure safer and more efficient water transportation. This measure is expected to reduce the risks associated with tanker trucks, such as accidents caused by their large size and slow speeds. Furthermore, Gupta urged National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) officials to ensure that proper signage is displayed near construction zones on highways. Construction zones can often become hotspots for accidents, particularly if drivers are unaware of sudden lane changes, roadwork, or other hazards. Clear and visible signs will alert drivers to upcoming dangers and help them navigate construction zones more safely.
These road safety measures reflect Kanpur’s commitment to improving the overall safety of its highways and ensuring that road travel becomes more secure, particularly during the challenging winter months. By focusing on both enforcement and infrastructure, the authorities are aiming to reduce accidents, promote safer driving behaviors, and create a more efficient transportation system. The installation of signboards, the use of advanced technology like high-resolution CCTV footage, and the implementation of stricter regulations for traffic violations are all part of a broader plan to ensure that roads in Kanpur and surrounding areas become safer for drivers and passengers alike. Gupta’s directive also emphasizes the importance of long-term solutions, such as the introduction of pipeline systems and the improvement of construction zone safety. With these measures in place, Kanpur is poised to make significant strides toward reducing road accidents, improving traffic law compliance, and enhancing the overall driving experience for its residents.
