The Noida Authority is considering the relocation of electric poles and CCTV camera installations on the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway. These structures, part of the Integrated Safety and Traffic Management System (ISTMS) project, are currently positioned inside crash barriers, posing a potential hazard to motorists. The proposal to move these installations outside the barriers aims to reduce the risk of severe accidents, as evidenced by a recent tragic incident.
The decision to reassess the placement of these poles follows a fatal accident on August 12, where three college students lost their lives after their Tata Tiago collided with a unipole on the expressway. The crash, which occurred near Mayoor School in Sector 126, resulted in the deaths of B.Tech student Ishan Kashyap (22), his brother Aaryan (19), and their friend Vinay Upadhyay (23). The vehicle, reportedly travelling at approximately 100 kmph, struck the pole with such force that the engine was pushed back into the front seats, underscoring the need for urgent safety measures. Currently, the expressway is lined with various poles, including eight ITMS poles, 11 advertisement poles, and five foot overbridge poles, all situated within the crash barriers. In light of the recent accident, Noida Authority officials are in discussions with the traffic department to assess the feasibility of relocating these poles to safer positions behind the barriers. Additionally, the Authority is exploring alternative safety measures for structures that cannot be easily moved.
To address these concerns, a committee has been formed to conduct a thorough inspection of the expressway and provide recommendations on whether to relocate the poles or implement other safety enhancements. An official from the Noida Authority commented, “Relocating these poles behind the crash barriers is a complex and time-consuming process. Our next steps will involve finalising key safety measures in consultation with the traffic department, conducting a comprehensive survey, and preparing a final report. The Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, which spans 24.5 kilometres, is a vital transportation corridor monitored by the ISTMS. Approximately 5 kilometres of the expressway fall under the jurisdiction of the Greater Noida Authority. The recent accident has brought attention to the need for improved road safety measures, particularly in areas with high traffic volumes and potential hazards. The relocation of poles and other safety initiatives are part of a broader strategy by the Noida Authority to enhance the safety and security of motorists on the expressway. By addressing these safety concerns proactively, the Authority aims to prevent future accidents and ensure a safer driving environment for all road users.
