Hyderabad Road Safety Threatened by Lack of Medians
Hyderabad has raised serious concerns regarding road safety, contributing to chaotic traffic conditions and frequent near-misses. The lack of proper road dividers is not only disrupting the flow of traffic but is also creating hazardous zones, putting both commuters and pedestrians at risk. Residents along this busy stretch have raised alarms about the dangerous driving practices triggered by the absence of medians. Without clear barriers separating lanes, vehicles make unpredictable U-turns and switch lanes arbitrarily, which only adds to the congestion and confusion, particularly during peak hours. Sudden turns at random points increase the risk of accidents, causing commuters to brake abruptly and contributing to gridlock. As the road network struggles to accommodate the growing number of vehicles, the absence of properly designed medians becomes a glaring issue.
The problem is compounded by the increased risks to pedestrians, who are forced to cross streets at unsafe locations due to the lack of designated crossings. In several stretches, the absence of dividers leads pedestrians to take dangerous shortcuts rather than using proper crossings, putting them directly in harm’s way. The absence of reflectors and clear road dividers makes it difficult for pedestrians to identify safe crossing points, thereby increasing the potential for accidents. The lack of medians has also resulted in a rise in traffic violations, particularly involving two-wheelers, which frequently cut across lanes through gaps in the road. These maneuvers lead to sudden stops by other vehicles, further exacerbating congestion and putting other road users in jeopardy. Such dangerous practices create a domino effect, slowing down traffic and creating an environment of constant frustration among commuters.
Adding to the complexity of the issue is the lack of alignment in certain sections of the road. For instance, near the Fateh Nagar flyover, the misaligned median forces vehicles to make sharp turns, disrupting the natural flow of traffic. These sharp turns not only increase the chances of accidents but also contribute to a heightened sense of road rage, as motorists become increasingly frustrated with the unpredictability of the road.
Business owners along this stretch have noted that traffic conflicts have become a regular occurrence, particularly as vehicles attempt risky maneuvers to bypass congested points. The rise in road rage incidents has also been reported, with motorists arguing over right-of-way in a situation that is already far from ideal. This escalating tension only makes the situation more precarious, with tempers flaring and potential for collisions increasing.
In response to these concerns, officials from the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have acknowledged the need for road improvements. They have outlined plans to conduct a detailed analysis of the existing gaps in road infrastructure and assess the effectiveness of irregularly placed medians. The government has promised to implement appropriate road dividers and consider road widening at congested spots. However, until these steps are taken, the safety concerns surrounding this vital route will likely continue to grow, leaving both residents and commuters at risk.
As Hyderabad continues to grow, the city’s roads need to evolve to meet the demands of increasing traffic and pedestrian safety. A holistic approach to road design, including well-placed and properly aligned medians, pedestrian crossings, and improved traffic management systems, is crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of the city’s transport infrastructure. Until these measures are implemented, the Erragadda-Sanathnagar road will remain a flashpoint for traffic congestion and safety risks.
