Home / Disasters and Accidents / Pune Traffic Chaos: Signals Dark, Commutes Triple
Pune Traffic Chaos: Signals Dark, Commutes Triple
2 Apr
Summary
- Defunct traffic signals at key Pune junctions caused three-hour commutes.
- Pune traffic police admit upgrade plans are delayed, signals lack backup.
- Experts warn of safety risks and call for prioritization of infrastructure.
Commuters in Pune experienced severe traffic congestion on Monday evening, with journeys extending to three hours. Sporadic rain and hail exacerbated the situation, which was primarily caused by non-functional traffic signals at several critical intersections.
Major junctions such as Rani Laxmibai Chowk and Juna Bazaar reported completely dark signals. This lack of regulation transformed minor delays into significant gridlock, with vehicles converging from all directions without order. Motorists expressed frustration over the recurring problem, questioning the authorities' maintenance schedules.
Despite promises made by the Pune traffic police over seven months ago regarding power backups and system upgrades, the situation remains unchanged. Officials acknowledged that the detailed project report for signal development is pending. Currently, 156 out of Pune's 281 operational signals lack power backup.
Traffic experts have labeled these recurring failures as alarming, highlighting the significant safety risks they pose to both vehicles and pedestrians. They emphasize that functional signals are crucial infrastructure and their repair should be a top priority for the authorities, irrespective of technological complexity.
