SHRC: Give more time for pedestrians to cross road

T‘puram: The state human rights commission (SHRC) has called for action to ensure more time for pedestrians to cross road by bringing about changes in traffic signal system near Gandhi Park at East Fort.
SHRC called for the action after reviewing the petition filed by Suresh Babu, 49, of Pazhaya Road near Ulloor, who suffered a third-degree tear to his left thigh while attempting to cross the road in February, 2017.
In July, 2018, TOI had reported about the difficulties pedestrians faced as many traffic signals across the city offer only 10 to 15 seconds for pedestrians to cross a road. TOI had also covered the plight of Suresh Babu who was then recuperating from surgery to his left thigh.
Babu, who approached the national human rights commission (NHRC), had complained that the unscientific traffic signal system near Gandhi Park was responsible for the accident which had left him jobless. The accident incurred heavy financial burden on him in terms of medical expenditure.
NHRC forwarded the case to SHRC and asked for reports from both Fort ACP and district social justice officer, who submitted reports in favour of Suresh Babu. The commission has directed the state government to compensate for the medical expenses of the complainant for his upcoming surgery from CM’s Disaster Relief Fund (CMDRF).
Babu, who is single, has been living alone since the death of his parents and the accident has made life difficult for him.
While he initially received a compensation of Rs 30,000 from the CMDRF, he had to undergo a laparoscopic surgery last year worth Rs 1.5 lakh.
As his medical condition prevents him standing up for prolonged duration, he has found it difficult to find a job. Another surgery, which would cost Rs 2 lakh, is still pending.
According to Suresh Babu, the construction of foot over-bridges and flyovers at busy junctions proposed by the state government is the need of the hour.
“The commission was convinced by the article published on TOI about traffic signals. If I am compensated for my next surgery and provided with a suitable job, I will be content. I don’t want to depend on someone else for the rest of my life. The timer for pedestrians at Gandhi Park needs to be immediately revised to ensure safety of pedestrians,” he said.