Adaptive traffic lights to come up at Panchkula Sec 20-21 dividing road

In a move set to bring much-needed relief to commuters, the Panchkula Metropolitan Development Authority (PMDA) has floated a tender for the installation of fully adaptive traffic lights on the dividing road between Sector 20 and 21.

The project, notified on the Haryana Engineering Works (HEW) portal on August 28, involves installing modern sensor-based traffic signal systems at two critical locations: the entry to Sector 20 near GH-79 and the entry to Sector 21, adjacent to the market and Alchemist Hospital road.

The adaptive traffic lights will mark the first such installation in Panchkula, setting a precedent for smart traffic management in the city. By combining technology with practical planning, the administration aims to tackle one of the busiest traffic choke points and restore order to the daily commute.

According to the tender document, bids will close on September 5, with an earnest money deposit of Rs 49,000 required from participating contractors. Officials confirmed that once awarded, the project will be executed swiftly to provide early relief to commuters.

Residents welcome move

The initiative, welcomed widely by residents, is aimed at easing the long-standing congestion issues in the area. The tender specifies adaptive traffic lights capable of automatically adjusting their timers according to real-time traffic load, thus ensuring smoother vehicle movement and reducing unnecessary delays.

“This is a welcome step. New traffic lights will help to regulate the flow of vehicles. It’s the right step of the administration at the right time. It was much needed for that particular area, and this initiative will certainly lead to a reduction in traffic congestion,” said Deepkrishan Chauhan, Chief Patron of a road safety organisation in Panchkula and a resident of Suncity Parikrama, Sector 20.

Daily commuters have long expressed frustration over persistent jams at the 20/21 dividing road, particularly during morning and evening peak hours. “There is a persistent traffic jam every day, primarily due to the increased flow after the underpass opened the direct route to Peer Muchalla and Sector 25. Improved traffic light management and better coordination are urgently needed to ease congestion for daily commuters,” said Rohan Dogra, a Sector 21 resident.

Local citizens’ groups have also hailed the project as a practical solution that will not only save time but also reduce fuel wastage and noise pollution. Mohit Gupta, who runs a community initiative, noted, “The two-location setup, one for Sector 20 and the other for Sector 21, coupled with closing all other side outlets, will make these lights highly effective. No more wasted fuel, manhours, and honking during long waits. It could really be a boon for residents and commuters alike.”