The Lalmati area along NH 27, following the inauguration of the Guwahati bypass as part of the east-west corridor, has witnessed a troubling surge in accidents, prompting concerns among commuters and residents alike. The root cause of this precarious situation stems from an opening in the divider situated between the end of the Basistha flyover and Games Village.
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During the day, numerous commuters are seen making unauthorised U-turns in an attempt to change lanes, despite regulations prohibiting such maneuvers. Moreover, the problem intensifies during the night, as freight-carrying vehicles frequently flout traffic laws by executing similar illegal manoeuvres. Consequently, this surge in illicit actions has contributed to an escalation in the number of accidents occurring in the particular area.
Residents living nearby express deep apprehension regarding the deteriorating safety conditions along NH 27. One resident, Malati Sharma, voiced her concern, stating, "It's alarming to witness the increasing frequency of accidents in our neighbourhood. We fear for the safety of both pedestrians and motorists."
Law-abiding drivers and commuters who navigate this stretch of highway echo similar sentiments. Ananda Barman, a regular commuter, emphasised the need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, asserting, "The authorities must take urgent action to prevent further accidents. Enhanced surveillance and penalties for violators are imperative to ensure the safety of all road users."
Responding to the escalating safety concerns, an official from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) assured the public, stating, "We are cognizant of the challenges faced by commuters along NH 27, particularly in the Lalmati area. Measures are being devised to enhance safety and prevent unauthorised manoeuvres that endanger lives."
Proposed solutions include the installation of physical barriers to deter illegal U-turns and enhanced enforcement measures to penalise violators. Additionally, efforts to raise awareness among motorists regarding safe driving practices are underway.
However, while initiatives are being implemented to mitigate the risk of accidents, residents and commuters emphasise the importance of sustained vigilance and proactive measures to ensure long-term safety along NH 27. With lives at stake, the collective efforts of authorities and the community are paramount in addressing the pressing safety concerns plaguing the area.
While speaking to GPlus, a resident who was the victim of a recent mishap in that area shared, "I was fortunate enough to escape from a near-fatal accident. It was during the night when the accident took place. Just after crossing the Basistha flyover a freight-carrying vehicle suddenly turned perpendicularly blocking the highway. In an attempt to make a U-turn, the carrier blocked my way and I bumped into it. As the safety devices worked properly there were no major injuries. However, the carrier scooted and I couldn't get hold of the registration information."
As the sun sets on another day along NH 27, residents and commuters alike remain hopeful that concerted actions will pave the way for safer travels on this vital stretch of the highway. Only time will tell if these measures prove effective in curbing the alarming trend of accidents and restoring peace of mind to those who rely on this critical thoroughfare.
Amidst the growing concerns, it is essential to delve deeper into the underlying factors contributing to the perilous situation unfolding in the Lalmati area. The opening in the divider, identified as a key catalyst for unauthorised manoeuvres, has raised questions regarding the initial planning and design of the highway infrastructure.
Concerned citizens argue that the absence of adequate barriers or signage to regulate traffic flow at critical junctions exacerbates the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the lack of proper lighting along certain sections of NH 27 compounds the safety hazards, particularly during nighttime travel.
Speaking to GPlus, the official from NHAI further said, "The section was open for the residents of Games Village initially. Soon we are planning to close that part. In addition, a foot overbridge will be installed to ease the movement of residents."
In addition to physical infrastructure shortcomings, the issue of enforcement and compliance with traffic regulations emerges as a significant challenge. Despite existing laws prohibiting illegal U-turns and lane changes, the prevalence of violations suggests a systemic failure in enforcement mechanisms.
Local law enforcement agencies face an uphill battle in ensuring compliance with traffic laws, given the vast expanse of the highway network and limited resources at their disposal. Moreover, the rampant disregard for regulations by some motorists underscores the need for greater public awareness and education on road safety.
A traffic official from Basistha police station shared with GPlus expressing, "The area is under the authority of NHAI. We have forwarded our notions to them. Due to the lack of turning spots nearby, commuters often use such tactics. We do assign officials to help navigate the traffic but that cannot be done 24x7."
Another major concern is that commuters often neglect the use of the vehicular underpass (VUP) situated in Beharbari. Moreover, that area near VUP turns congested area due to the overflow of vehicles. Such issues are turning out to be constraints to seamless connectivity.
While addressing the immediate safety concerns along NH 27 is imperative, stakeholders must also anticipate future challenges and strive for sustainable solutions that promote safe and efficient transportation systems. By prioritising safety, accountability, and collaboration, the risks posed by hazardous road conditions can be mitigated and the well-being of all road users can be ensured.
To sum up, the growing safety issues along NH 27 in the Lalmati region highlight the necessity of taking coordinated action and preventive steps to deal with the underlying causes of accidents. A culture of responsible driving and safer journeys for future generations can be shaped if the community and all the relevant parties work collectively.
