Bollards to be put up on all cycle tracks in Chandigarh

To prevent motorists from driving on cycle tracks, the UT police have decided to install bollards on these tracks throughout the city. Initially, these were put up on a few roads.

The issue of motorists driving on cycle tracks was raised by the SSP (Traffic), Sumer Pratap Singh, during a meeting of District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) held last month.

The SSP had pointed out that steps needed to be taken to stop vehicles from plying on the cycle tracks.

Sources said to address the issue, the traffic police conducted a survey regarding installation of bollards at the entry and exit points on the cycle tracks and a detailed report was sent to the Chief Engineers of UT Administration and Municipal Corporation.

The practice of driving on cycle tracks to avoid traffic jams was rampant in the city. A few years ago, the traffic police had constituted a cycle safety squad, comprising policemen, to prevent motorists from driving on the tracks. The squad was also asked to sensitise cyclists, rickshaw-pullers and ‘rehriwalas’ to using cycle tracks.

The police said two-wheeler riders were usually found driving on the cycle tracks and they were challaned.

To ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, a proposal to have timers at zebra crossing lights is also under consideration. The Engineering Department has prepared the estimates for the installation of the lights with timers.