In a significant move to tackle chronic traffic snarls, the Ludhiana Municipal Corporation has switched on new, automated traffic signals at the notoriously busy Basti Jodhewal Chowk. The initiative, inaugurated on Tuesday, aims to finally bring order to one of the city's most congested and accident-prone intersections.
How the Smart Traffic System Works
The newly installed lights are a technological upgrade from the old fixed-timer systems. They are equipped with sensors that continuously monitor the volume of vehicles approaching the junction from all sides. Based on this real-time data, the system automatically adjusts the duration of the green and red signals. This dynamic adjustment is designed to respond to actual traffic conditions, promising a smoother and more efficient flow compared to the rigid cycles that often caused gridlock.
Mayor Inderjit Kaur, who officially launched the system, highlighted the critical need for this intervention. She stated that Basti Jodhewal Chowk had been classified as a "black spot" due to the heavy traffic and frequent accidents. "We have tied up with the traffic police, and automated traffic lights have been installed to ensure the smooth movement of traffic," the Mayor explained, underscoring the collaborative effort behind the project.
Part of a Larger City-Wide Project
The installation at Basti Jodhewal is not a standalone effort but a key component of a major urban infrastructure plan. The municipal body is in the process of rolling out these automated traffic lights at 42 key locations across Ludhiana. The entire project carries an estimated cost of about Rs 7.1 crore.
This means residents can expect similar smart systems at other major junctions in the near future. Identified locations for upcoming installations include busy intersections like Tajpur Road Chowk and Tibba Road, among others. The civic body has already implemented such systems at several other points in the city as part of an ongoing drive to manage vehicular movement.
Local Leaders Hail the Initiative
The launch event saw the presence of several local dignitaries who welcomed the step. MLAs Daljit Grewal and Ashok Prashar, along with councillor Aman Bagga, attended the ceremony. They emphasized that the automated traffic system represents the kind of "ground-level" initiative that directly impacts the daily lives of citizens. The move is seen as a practical solution to a long-standing problem, aiming to improve commute times and, most importantly, enhance road safety by reducing the risk of accidents at a designated black spot.
The activation of these smart signals marks a proactive step by Ludhiana's administration towards leveraging technology for urban management. If successful, this model could set a precedent for addressing traffic chaos in other congested cities across Punjab and beyond.
