Tyre Killers Introduced in Thane to Prevent Accidents
In a decisive move to enhance road safety and curb the menace of wrong-side driving, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC), in collaboration with the city traffic police department, has installed tyre killers at critical locations across the city. The first installation took place on Shivaji Maharaj Path, near Thane railway station, on Sunday, February 2. The initiative aims to reduce traffic congestion, prevent accidents, and improve overall traffic management in Thane. Wrong-side driving has been a persistent issue, often leading to severe accidents and unnecessary bottlenecks, especially in busy areas. With the introduction of tyre killers, the authorities hope to instil a sense of discipline among motorists.
For the uninitiated, tyre killers are road safety devices designed to puncture vehicle tyres if they attempt to move against the designated flow of traffic. These metal spikes are embedded in the road surface and remain recessed when vehicles travel in the correct direction. However, if a vehicle tries to drive on the wrong side, the spikes rise to pierce the tyres, rendering the vehicle immobile and deterring repeat offences. The spikes are robust enough to cause significant tyre damage, necessitating immediate repairs or replacements. To prevent inadvertent damage, the TMC has installed warning signboards at distances of 100 and 200 metres before the tyre killers, alerting drivers about the upcoming hazard. Adequate lighting is also being ensured in these zones to improve visibility during night-time.
This project is part of a pilot initiative. If successful, the TMC plans to extend the installation of tyre killers to all one-way roads across Thane. The decision comes after observing recurring incidents of wrong-side driving, which not only jeopardise lives but also disrupt the smooth flow of traffic. Currently, tyre killers are being installed at three high-risk locations identified for frequent violations and congestion: Subhash Path (near Thane railway station), Gaondevi Temple Area, and B Cabin Area. These areas have witnessed numerous instances of wrong-side driving, contributing to road mishaps and traffic snarls. TMC officials believe that the physical deterrent will significantly reduce such violations.
While fines and traffic challans have been traditional deterrents, physical road infrastructure changes like tyre killers provide a more immediate consequence for violations. This approach not only discourages offenders but also reinforces the importance of adhering to traffic rules. The Thane traffic department has appealed to motorists to respect road signs and follow the designated routes. As the city grapples with increasing vehicular density, such initiatives are vital to ensuring road safety and maintaining smooth traffic flow. For Thane’s motorists, the message is clear: Drive responsibly or risk puncturing more than just your tyres.
