Fading signboards confuses residents
Gurugram, Aug. 29 -- Majority of the signboards on National Highway 48 (NH-48) in Gurugram are poorly placed, misleading thousands of daily commuters. A recent survey conducted by the traffic police last week revealed glaring errors, including incorrect speed limit boards and faded or misplaced signages on a highway that witnesses nearly half a million vehicles daily.
According to the findings, 75% of signboards on NH-48 between Delhi and Jaipur bypass are either faded, wrongly placed, or poorly visible, making navigation difficult and often dangerous.
At many locations, boards are either hidden behind trees, placed at a wrong height, or installed too close to the turn, giving commuters little time to react. For example, signboards at Exit 12 in Sector 9 and Sector 10 are faded and unclear and at exit 16 in South City, Sector 14, and Sector 17 are wrongly positioned, forcing drivers into sudden lane changes.
Traffic police officials said faulty signage contributes directly to congestion and accidents. "It will be easier for commuters to navigate if the boards are placed correctly and maintained. Confusion leads to abrupt turns and frequent collisions," said Dr Rajesh Kumar Mohan, deputy commissioner of police, Traffic.
"Survey has revealed that of 92 signages at Rajiv Chowk, nearly 75% are either incorrect, misplaced, or misleading," said Mohan, adding that a comprehensive review is underway to better understand the condition of signages. The installation of signages is guided by the Road Safety Committee, and responsibility lies with the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), said officials.
RD Singhal, chief general manager (Mobility), GMDA, said "Rectification work at Rajiv Chowk has been initiated.We will replace the faulty signages in three days if weather permits."
The report also flagged errors in speed limit signage. Some boards show contradictory speed limits within short stretches which creates uncertainty among drivers over speeding fines. Rakesh Kumar, a daily commuter from Manesar, said, "At night, many boards are either not visible or misleading. You realise the turn only after you've missed it."
Acknowledging the lapses, the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA) has written to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), urging it to replace broken and faded boards.
Officials said, "The NH-48 is the city's most critical corridor. Clear signage is essential for road safety and traffic management. We have asked the NHAI to act immediately."...
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