The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has launched an initiative to alleviate traffic congestion near the Palladium Mall Junction and Iskcon Temple on the SG Highway. Traffic management measures have been implemented on this stretch, including the placement of drums and plastic road barriers to enforce lane discipline. This effort is being carried out in collaboration with the traffic police, the AMC engineering department, and SVNIT, which serves as the consultant institute.
Objectives of the Initiative
An official stated, "The initiative aims to keep traffic moving without hurdles and enable smoother, signal-free movement from all four directions. The plan was implemented after considering traffic jams, accident risks, and irregular vehicle movement, in line with recommendations from traffic experts and the traffic police branch."
Installation Details
The installation of drums and creation of capsule-shaped traffic channels at the two junctions began on May 17. A total of 23 iron drums have been installed near Iskcon Temple and 29 near Palladium Mall. Additionally, 54 plastic road barriers have been deployed, including 25 in the section where the capsule has been opened. A technical traffic survey was conducted by the consultant institute prior to the installations. Authorities indicated that a flowchart-based traffic plan was jointly prepared by the traffic police, AMC, and the consultant to improve junction management.
Expected Benefits
The AMC stated that the trial is expected to reduce traffic congestion, lower fuel consumption, and save commuters' time. The project is currently being implemented on a trial basis, with public feedback to be collected after full implementation. The civic body noted that traffic police are continuously monitoring the arrangement, and similar systems may be introduced at other city junctions if the experiment proves successful.
