Speed breakers, originally designed to ensure safety on roads by slowing down vehicles, have increasingly become a danger rather than a protective measure in Ahmedabad. A recent assessment across key high-traffic areas of the city—such as S G Highway, Drive-in Road, and AMC to Vasna Road—revealed a worrying trend: poorly designed, uneven, and often unmarked speed bumps that pose serious risks to both vehicles and pedestrians. In light of these findings, local authorities have been urged to address this critical civic issue, which is impacting the city’s road safety and overall infrastructure quality.
The inspection, conducted to assess compliance with the Indian Road Congress (IRC) guidelines, exposed numerous violations. The IRC mandates that speed breakers must be clearly marked, with triangular warning signs placed at least 100 metres ahead of the bump, and the bumps themselves painted with black-and-white stripes. However, it was found that most speed breakers in Ahmedabad did not meet these basic standards. Many lacked proper signage, while others were constructed unevenly, making it difficult for drivers to anticipate them, leading to sudden jolts and potential accidents. The hazards were particularly pronounced for two-wheelers, who are more susceptible to losing control when encountering unmarked or irregular bumps.
Dr Praveen Kanabar, president of the Ahmedabad Traffic Consultative Committee, emphasised the importance of adhering to these regulations for the safety of all road users. “The visibility of speed bumps is crucial. When these bumps blend into zebra crossings or are poorly marked, accidents become inevitable,” he explained. With two-wheeler riders especially vulnerable, these faulty speed breakers have become an unwelcome source of accidents, falls, and serious injuries. For cars, the situation is no better—uneven bumps can damage suspensions and harm vehicle performance, leading to costly repairs.
In response to these concerns, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has outlined a series of corrective measures. Deputy Municipal Commissioner Mirant Parikh confirmed that an action plan is already underway, with new speed breakers being constructed as per IRC standards. Additionally, the AMC will assess and rectify existing speed bumps that are improperly designed or damaged, ensuring they are clearly marked and well-maintained. This process is expected to be completed within two months, significantly improving road safety.
From a sustainability perspective, these corrective measures not only enhance commuter safety but also contribute to the broader goal of creating a more resilient urban infrastructure. By ensuring that speed breakers meet proper standards, the city can reduce road accidents, improve traffic flow, and ensure the longevity of the road network, benefiting both the environment and public safety.
