We all shout about traffic jams, but nothing seems to move!
Traffic blocks are endlessly talked about. In fact, this column itself has published so many articles addressing the woes faced by commuters. And yet, the problem persists.
Traffic jams during rush hours are inevitable- true- and are common enough around the globe, but they can be minimized! There may be many reasons that can be cited for the cause of traffic jams such as the increase in population and vehicles, the road system remaining the same, the flouting of rules, etc. One of these reasons is undeniably the extremely civilized conduct displayed by our bus drivers. I choose not to even write about the three wheeler drivers!
Without a doubt, not all bus drivers are the same. In the midst of these uncouth fellows, there are gentlemen who know road rules. Drivers who don’t honk unnecessarily; who stick to their lanes. If only some sort of regulation and training could be provided to the drivers, a definite change will be visible.
Let’s illustrate a simple situation here: In a junction, take one lane that falls into the junction. This lane will most probably have two sub lanes, one leading straight on and the other leading to the side roads (turning). Sometimes the straight lane traffic lights turn red while the ‘turning’ lane remains green. But certain bus drivers who have to go straight (and sometimes other vehicles as well) drive in this lane and stay there, right in front (so that they can be the first to go when the light turns green), blocking all the vehicles that want to turn. Commuters on Galle Road will know what is being referred to here (this hap- pens in other routes as well).
Not only is this frustrating and downright rude, but also directly causes the traffic to stagnate and increase.
Furthermore, some drivers seem unable to decide which lane to stay on even when going straight. If the lane in the right is moving, they must go there: then the left lane moves so they come back zigzagging, and sometimes, drive in the middle of both lanes! When the vehicle that is doing this is a MASSIVE bus, the problem is amplified manifold... blocking both lanes!
These problems have to be addressed, and soon. So many tired workers going home get more exhausted because they get stuck in these endless traffic jams. The effect on development is also enormous with lost time. It is also a major problem for youth, and students. We have a well distributed system of public transport; trains and buses. All that is left to be done is regulation and strict enforcement of discipline.
Occasional upgrading won’t hurt either. Security cameras can be used to detect rule-flouters, and the fines can be posted to the registered owner of the guilty number plate after a stipulated time, say maybe monthly, instead of the archaic method currently being used. The slow and arduous process of fining is one reason why rule breakers get away at peak times.