Mangaluru, Sep 16: A trial run of traffic signals at Balmatta, Ambedkar Circle, and Bunts Hostel Junction on Monday morning led to heavy traffic congestion during peak hours, causing inconvenience to the public. Realizing the situation, traffic police turned off the signals and restored normal traffic flow.
As part of the experiment, newly installed traffic signals under the Smart City project were activated at three major junctions. However, the move created long queues of vehicles and disrupted smooth movement. The trial run, conducted for two hours, highlighted the difficulties, prompting police to study the issue further for better management.
Manual regulation despite signals
The sudden operation of signals caused confusion among commuters, with several failing to follow the new rules. To address the situation, police staff were deployed on-site, requesting motorists to comply. Controlling the growing traffic density during the trial became a challenge for the police as well.
Multiple signals on the same stretch
Motorists entering the city from Pumpwell faced multiple signal points along the road at Karanth Circle, Balmata, Ambedkar Circle, Hampankatta, Bunts Hostel, and PVS. This resulted in delays for those heading towards State Bank and Lalbagh, with travel time from Pumpwell to the city taking over 15 minutes.
Short duration adds to woes
The road from Pumpwell to Karanth Circle is already in poor condition, hindering smooth traffic. At Karanth Circle, the 20-second signal cycle further delayed movement, especially for vehicles arriving from Kasargod, Puttur, Ullal, Mudipu, and Bantwal. With buses occupying most of the space, cars and smaller vehicles were left struggling to pass.
Assessment of challenges
“The signals were operated on a trial basis on September 15 morning to assess the challenges. We studied both the pros and cons and will hold discussions with senior officials. Another trial will be conducted in the coming days, and once the problems are addressed, the system will be fully implemented,” said ACP (Traffic) Nazma Farooqi.
