Traffic Signals Set for Comeback on Coimbatore's Avinashi Road to Curb Accidents
In a significant reversal of policy, traffic signals are poised to make a return to Avinashi Road in Coimbatore after an absence of nearly two years. This move aims to address a surge in speeding and accidents that followed the removal of the signals, highlighting evolving challenges in urban traffic management.
Background: From Signals to U-Turns and Back
In 2023, the Coimbatore city police removed 12 traffic signals along the Uppilipalayam-SITRA Junction stretch on Avinashi Road, replacing them with U-turns as part of a road safety initiative. Initially, this change was hailed for improving traffic flow. Motorists experienced fewer stoppages, especially during peak hours, as they no longer had to wait at signals for at least a minute each time. According to former city police commissioner data, the 108 ambulance response time improved dramatically, dropping from 11.22 minutes to 7.22 minutes, and the city saved lakhs of rupees on electricity bills due to the deactivated signals.
The Turning Point: GD Naidu Flyover Opens
The scenario shifted drastically in October of last year with the opening of the GD Naidu flyover for public use. Approximately 50% of motorists began using this elevated corridor, leading to a sharp reduction in traffic volume on the surface stretch of Avinashi Road. With no signals to regulate speed, motorists started speeding, resulting in a spike in accidents. Police data reveals that out of 101 accidents reported on Avinashi Road in 2025, 26 occurred between October and December after the flyover's inauguration, claiming four lives in just three months. The situation worsened in January 2026, with 12 accidents causing four fatalities, prompting calls for action.
Public and Official Perspectives on the Change
N Logu, secretary of Coimbatore Consumer Voice, criticized the U-turn system, noting imperfections such as long detours of up to 500 meters at locations like Nava India and congestion at certain points. He emphasized that pedestrians have struggled to cross roads safely since the signal removal, advocating for the reintroduction of signals to enhance pedestrian safety and reduce accident rates.
On the official front, S Ashok Kumar, city deputy police commissioner (traffic), confirmed that the government has allocated Rs1.10 crore to reinstall traffic signals at key junctions including Uppilipalayam, GKNM, Lakshmi Mills, Pioneer Mill Road, Hope College, and Nava India. U-turns near these signals will be removed, and the plan includes dedicated pedestrian crossing times at every signal to improve safety.
Challenges and Future Plans
An unnamed police officer revealed that several politicians and prominent businesspersons have been pressuring authorities to implement the traffic signal system on Avinashi Road. While signals are expected to boost pedestrian safety and curb accidents, concerns remain about potential increases in traffic congestion at junctions like Nava India and Peelamedu.
Meanwhile, city police commissioner N Kannan unveiled ambitious plans to develop the stretch as a ‘green corridor’. Under this proposed system, motorists driving at designated speeds will encounter only green signals at successive junctions, ensuring a smoother flow without unnecessary stops. This initiative aims to balance safety with efficiency, addressing the dual needs of accident prevention and traffic management in Coimbatore's evolving urban landscape.
