SCHOOLS have reopened and with this traffic on the roads has increased. However, is this the only reason for traffic congestion? I would say, NO.
People are acting irresponsibly. They think they are smart and play selfish. They create unnecessary chaos by blocking free-flowing traffic lanes, jumping into the queue, and turning wherever they want, ignoring law-abiding citizens.
The Traffic Police are doing their best on busy roads. Whether there are traffic lights or not, whenever the Traffic Police see congestion building up, they redirect the traffic, allowing for a free flow. I think this is of great help and needs to continue.
The following points may help in reducing congestion further:
- Only a few of the students and teachers are using school transport; the rest are using private transport. If all the students and teachers are encouraged to use school transport, then that might reduce private vehicle spread-out at busy times.
- A small change in school opening times may help prevent traffic jams. At present, the school starting time and the office starting time are clashing in some ways; the governing bodies can issue a circular to rearrange the opening time of schools or businesses or a mixed opening time to mitigate this issue.
- Many drivers block a free-flowing traffic lane by stopping in the middle of that track, until the traffic signal turns to green. The vehicles behind need to wait unnecessarily for a prolonged period, until the vehicles blocking the lane get into the normal lane. This irresponsible behaviour of a few creates an artificial chaos. I think the Traffic Police can install a device to find out the rule violators, punish them and eliminate this issue.
- There are certain points where traffic congestion happens regularly. In such places, if anyone tries to jump the queue, breaks the queue, or trespasses into normal traffic lanes, there should be punishments waiting for him.
- Using a mobile phone while driving is a punishable offence. Nonetheless, I have seen many people looking at the mobile and driving slowly, hindering the traffic flow. Suitable punishments may reduce this habit.
- Two-wheelers need a separate lane, instead of allowing them to break the queue. At present, they perform an adventurous snake dance for a free pass at the front. This is dangerous.
We are not living in an ideal world to expect that fellow drivers will take ownership and abide by the traffic rules, whether a policeman is watching them or not. All are in a hurry and looking for their own selfish fulfilment. Punishment may reduce traffic offences, but the problem will continue.
Let us take a vow to do our part in mitigating the issue.
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