One of the most neglected road signs in our city’s roads in the ‘stop’ line. Not only do motorists brazenly cross this line, but the Corporation, too, has done little to keep them from fading. As is the case with most traffic violations today, commuters seldom realise that such a rule exists. And those who are aware, still cross the line at traffic signals. Motorists along the Poonamallee High Road- Annanagar Arch- New Avadi Road junction, are seen violating this rule regularly. The ‘stop’ lines here are hardly visible — they have either faded away due to years of negligence or vehicles halt over them. Being a major arterial road, at almost every intersection, Poonamallee High Road branches off into roads that lead to prominent neighbourhoods. This means there is always a large volume of traffic waiting to make a right turn at every signal. Invariably, motorists encroach the opposite lane as they wait for their signal to turn green. This obstructs the flow of traffic, and creates havoc for pedestrians who want to cross the road. Those few extra metres, which hardly benefit the violators, adversely affect the rest of the traffic and thereby causing traffic bottlenecks.
This problem has become ubiquitous in our city. Not stopping at a pedestrian crossing will cost you a fine up to Rs. 100 for the first offence and up to Rs. 300 for subsequent offences. Yet, this seems to have been conveniently forgotten. With commuters hardly paying heed to signboards placed at eye level, it is no surprise that signs on the road are ignored.
With traffic congestion increasing by the day, it is imperative that we do our best to avoid aggravating the problem. Staying behind the ‘stop’ line is a simple rule we owe our fellow commuters and pedestrians. Organisations like Thozhan (thozhan.org) are helping spread awareness regarding traffic rules. Among its various objectives, Thozhan also focuses on traffic awareness. They meet twice a month and target major intersections, and create awareness on the need for stopping behind the ‘stop’ line at traffic signals. They co-ordinate with the officials and educate commuters on the go. This is the best way to make a lasting impact as opposed to seminars and lectures, says Radhakrishnan, the organiser at Thozhan. They do, however, conduct sessions at schools, helping students become aware of all the rules even before they get behind the wheel (or handlebar). Volunteers can contact them and help out in several ways. Traffic rules are there to ensure safety and smooth flow; it is time to toe the line.
vikram.mankal@gmail.com
