Pune: Transport Experts Slam Lax Traffic Management for Rising Night-Time Accidents in City
Pune:
The city’s growing number of serious accidents at night has drawn sharp criticism from transport experts and social organisations, who have blamed the administrative system for its lax approach. They argue that the practice of turning off traffic signals and the absence of active enforcement during late hours is directly contributing to the surge in fatal incidents in the city.
Following the tragic incident in Wagholi, where a drunk dumper driver claimed the lives of nine people, social organisations have criticised the administrative agencies for their approach to traffic management.
“Pune city is expanding rapidly, and in both the city and its suburbs, major establishments such as malls, offices, pubs, restaurants, and hotels along the highways remain operational late into the night. This results in significant nighttime traffic on the roads. However, traffic signals are switched off during these hours, and there is a lack of police presence at critical intersections to manage traffic. This negligence has led to a rise in nighttime accidents,” stated Ranjit Gadgil of the Parisar organisation.
Gadgil further highlighted how the absence of traffic management emboldens reckless behaviour. “Many drivers, often under the influence of alcohol, drive unchecked at night. With no police presence or functioning signals, they freely travel in the wrong direction, with high beams further increasing risks. The number of heavy vehicles operating at night has also risen, particularly in areas like Hadapsar, Wagholi, Chandani Chowk, Baner, Hinjewadi, and Bhosari. This only adds to the chaos,” he said.
He emphasised that reinstating traffic lights at night and ensuring mandatory police deployment at critical points could drastically reduce the number of severe accidents.
Key Issues Identified by Experts
- Reckless driving persists due to non-operational traffic signals at night.
- Double traffic is frequently seen on one-way roads, fuelled by the lack of enforcement.
- Heavy vehicles violate rules unchecked, worsening traffic conditions.
- No effective deterrent for drunk driving.
