NHAI, Utkal University, NH-16, Traffic Safety, Bhubaneswar, Road Safety Measures, Pedestrian Safety, Rasulgarh Square
These traffic calming measures were initially installed to enhance road safety but had deteriorated over time due to a lack of regular maintenance. The absence of functioning speed reducers had raised concerns among commuters and pedestrians about the increased risk of accidents in the area.
Experts have long highlighted the need for such safety measures on the service lanes of NH-16, particularly near Utkal University and Rasulgarh Square. These areas are characterized by heavy pedestrian movement, frequent wrong-side driving, and speeding, making them prone to accidents. Road safety expert Syed Maqbool Ali emphasized that the design of these service lanes often forces vehicles to drive on the wrong side, underscoring the necessity of traffic calming measures like speed reducers and reflectors.
In response to these concerns, NHAI has also planned to introduce additional traffic calming measures near Rasulgarh Square, another critical point on NH-16. Project Director Suraj Singh confirmed that the reinstallation of speed reducers at Utkal University was part of a broader strategy to address road safety issues in the city. He noted that similar measures are being considered for other accident-prone areas along the highway.
The decision to reinstall the speed reducers follows previous reports highlighting the dangers posed by their removal, especially when done to facilitate VVIP movement. Residents and students have expressed relief at the reinstatement, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public safety over convenience.
As NHAI continues to implement and maintain traffic calming measures on NH-16, the focus remains on creating safer, more sustainable urban environments. These efforts align with broader goals of promoting zero-net-carbon, eco-friendly, and equitable cities, ensuring that infrastructure developments contribute positively to the community’s well-being.
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