Intersection of chaos and traffic mismanagement

AHMEDABAD: Jodhpur Crossroads has become both a boon and bane for commuters. While it provides easy access to interstate travel buses, it is also witness to a lot of traffic jams ensuing due to this reason. Traffic that converges at the crossroads is at peak between 7.30 pm and 9 pm.
Traffic lights were installed two years ago but never became functional.According to a traffic cop, complaints have been lodged regarding this, but no action has been taken. "It's a big hassle for us as we have to manage traffic manually. Even though many of us are on the job, the heavy flow becomes tough to handle," he said.As a result, commuters have to wait patiently for long periods for the traffic to clear. This has led to a rise in traffic violations and accidents. It's vital that the Jodhpur stretch be made smoother with proper traffic management.Says Satellite resident Shivangini Dhawan, 19, "I take the Shivranjani-Jodhpur route on a regular basis. There is no respite from heavy traffic. It takes a good 15 minutes to cross the stretch during peak hours and one has to be careful as people drive in a hurry."Traffic pouring in from SG Highway is maximum at this crossroad. Pedestrians add to commuter woes by crossing roads recklessly."I almost bumped into a woman crossing the road without looking left or right. After a hard day's work last thing one needs is a fight," rued Sahil Patel, 28.
(QUOTES)
I travel on this route daily and encounter a number of problems. Amdavadis have no traffic sense, especially two-wheeler drivers. Careless driving is a major cause of accidents and traffic police is of no help
Punit Mehrotra, 21, architect
Amdavadis have got used to driving on the wrong side now. Also, people try to intercept you. It is time traffic police takes some initiative to prevent jams and chaos on the road
Vipul Shukla, 42, businessman