PWD posts men at skywalk to convince people to use it

NEW DELHI: The public works department has deployed its personnel to encourage pedestrians to use the newly-constructed skywalk at the busy ‘W’ point crossing near ITO.

A senior official said they were stationed near the entry points during peak morning hours and in the afternoon when movement of schoolchildren is high. The personnel try to prevent pedestrians from crossing the busy roads at the grade level, especially when traffic is moving, and guide them to the new facility.

Though initially reluctant, more and more pedestrians are using the skywalk, said an official. “The number has increased tremendously in the past few days,” said an official. “While most people understand our argument, some refuse saying they are getting late.” Children from four-five schools in the vicinity are the most enthusiastic lot, he added.

Approximately, 30,000 pedestrians cross various roads around ITO crossing and ‘W’ Point every day. “Almost 80% of the pedestrians use the skywalk now,” said an official.

The PWD personnel are also helped by traffic policemen, who also try to convince people to use the skywalk for their own safety.

The skywalk has five arms and there is a separate facility to cross the ITO intersection.