KOLKATA: KMDA has completed the pilot project of putting up wires on both flanks of a 30m stretch of Maa flyover to stop accidents triggered by kite strings.
Both flanks of the flyover remained closed from 11pm to 5am for a few days this month for KMDA to paint the crash barriers as well as fix the wires. After consultation with police, it was decided that the wires would be fixed at the Park Circus No. 4 bridge area for the pilot project.
KMDA engineers who carried out the work said that keeping in mind strong winds, slim long poles and light wire were selected instead of a full net cover for the job. “These were chosen as they are light but rigid and can withstand strong winds. This is aesthetically pleasing as well. The entire stretch of Maa flyover can be provided with wires,” said an official.
KMDA took up the pilot project following the Kolkata traffic police’s proposal to install 4ft nets on the southern flank of Maa flyover to prevent kite strings from injuring bikers. At least 26 such accidents have occurred on Maa flyover over the past three years.