Signals under SKDCL project not working

KALYAN: Almost 18 years after the old signals in the twin cities went defunct, the Smart Kalyan Dombivli Corporation Limited (SKDCL) installed new signals in Kalyan. These new signals, which were operational since January 26, are now non-operational.

This has irked the commuters who claimed that the signals had not made any change in the traffic congestion as they are defunct most of the time.

The traffic signals installed at Anand Dighe junction and Chakki Naka in Kalyan (E) have stopped functioning. Commuters claimed that it has been almost three weeks since the signals stopped working.

“The signal was operational in February, but is now defunct and is creating confusion among motorists. The traffic movement was disciplined since the signals were installed as vehicles used to stop at the junction and follow the signals. The situation is again bad as vehicles cross the junction from all sides and causes congestion,” said Dheeraj Chavan, 40, a commuter.

Similarly, the signals at Prem Auto junction are also not functioning, commuters complained.

“The Chakki Naka junction needs a signal to manage the traffic flow. The signals, sometimes, show the lights on and this confuses the commuters if we have to follow the signal or not,” said Manali Shinde, 32, another commuter.

The SKDCL first installed signals in the twin cities two decades ago. However, none of these signals were maintained and went defunct.

Under the smart city project, the civic body has installed signals at five locations in Kalyan, while it has plans at 15 more locations.

“The signals were shut for the upgradation work. The one at Anand Dighe junction was stopped after the traffic police asked to stop it due to some bridge work.. The Prem Auto junction signal has started functioning,” said Ghanshyam Bhabad, manager IT SKDCL.

RISHIKESH CHOUDHARY/HT One of the traffic signals in Kalyan (E) is not working.