Ambawadi, Shyamal Junctions in Ahmedabad Among Toughest to Navigate, Study Finds
The Ambawadi or Shyamal crossroads in Ahmedabad, you’ll be familiar with the frustration of trying to navigate these notoriously tricky junctions. Known for their traffic snarls, confusing turns, and challenging pedestrian conditions, both junctions have earned a reputation as some of the toughest in the city. A recent study conducted by Urban Labs, a city-based research organisation, sheds light on the various challenges these junctions present and the pressing need for improvements.
Urban Labs focused on Ambawadi and Shyamal Crossroads as part of a study aimed at identifying the most difficult traffic junctions in Ahmedabad. These two spots were highlighted due to their unique issues, which contribute to severe traffic congestion and heightened risks to pedestrian safety. Aviral, the project coordinator at Urban Labs, outlined the key problems at Shyamal Crossroads, a four-arm junction that often sees a significant amount of traffic during peak hours. One of the primary issues at Shyamal is the narrow footpaths. These footpaths, which are not only cramped but also poorly designed, create unsafe conditions for pedestrians, especially during busy times. Additionally, on-street parking further exacerbates the situation, blocking pedestrian pathways and creating unnecessary obstacles for both walkers and vehicles. Another problem is the width of the free left turn lanes, designed to ease traffic flow but in reality, leading to misuse. Drivers often take advantage of these extra-wide lanes, creating confusion and increasing the chances of accidents.
The issue of pedestrian safety is particularly concerning at Shyamal Crossroads. The elevated steps at zebra crossings pose a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair users and the visually impaired. These barriers to accessibility make what should be a simple crossing into a daunting task for many. On the other hand, the Ambawadi Junction, which is notably wide, presents a different set of problems. The lack of proper channelisers (traffic barriers that guide vehicles along a specific path) results in chaotic street conditions. This mismanagement encourages drivers to make dangerous, wrong-side movements that further disrupt the already congested traffic flow. Another critical issue at Ambawadi is the junction’s alignment. Urban design experts like Aviral point out that right-angled junctions are far easier to navigate than those with acute or obtuse angles.
At right-angled intersections, both drivers and pedestrians have better visibility, making it easier to judge oncoming traffic and navigate the intersection safely. In contrast, at Ambawadi’s awkwardly angled junction, drivers must turn their entire neck to gauge the flow of traffic, increasing the chances of accidents. The findings from Urban Labs highlight the urgent need for rethinking the design of these key junctions in Ahmedabad. With the growing population and increasing number of vehicles in the city, improving traffic flow and pedestrian safety is paramount. The study calls for better pedestrian infrastructure, including wider footpaths and accessible crossings, as well as smarter traffic management solutions like more controlled lanes and clearer signage. For residents and commuters, the ongoing struggles at these junctions have made daily commutes more stressful and time-consuming. With a push for better urban planning and enhanced safety features, these changes could make a significant difference in ensuring smoother, safer journeys for all who use these busy roads. Ahmedabad’s traffic woes at Ambawadi and Shyamal are a reminder of the city’s urgent need for infrastructure upgrades that prioritise both vehicle movement and pedestrian wellbeing.
