J. Koshy, a resident of Selaiyur, dreads having to cross the intersection of Agaramthen Main Road and Indian Air Force Road, Selaiyur, thanks to defunct traffic signals. Incidentally, the signals were installed only a year ago.
Motorists and pedestrians have requested the Chennai Traffic Police (CTP) to repair the defunct traffic signals and facilitate a pedestrian signal at the intersection. During rush hour, the intersection witnesses heavy vehicular traffic as the crossroads facilitates easy connectivity to Thiruvanchery, Pathuvanchery, Mappedu, Madambakkam and Camp Road.
“Accidents are waiting to happen at the intersection, which is close to a few schools in the locality. The continuous flow of vehicular traffic from the crossroads makes it difficult for road users to negotiate the intersection.
Moreover, the defunct signals results in congestion, especially during the rush hour. A few motorists speed, overtake and jump lanes, throwing caution to the wind,” says Koshy.
Motorists coming from Indira Nagar, Selaiyur, take a free right turn towards Agaramthen Main Road, much to the dismay of other motorists coming from Camp Road, as they have to brake suddenly. Similarly, motorists from Thiruvanchery, take a free right turn towards Indira Nagar, putting at risk the lives of motorists coming from Camp Road and IAF Road.
At the intersection, pedestrians can often be seen dodging speeding vehicles. Given the magnitude of vehicles passing through the intersection, steps must be taken to repair the signals.
A CTP personnel says “When Agaramthen Main Road was widened, the underground electric cable of the signals got damaged. Steps will be taken soon to replace the damaged cable.”