For years, the Coimbatore city police have tested various measures to curb road accidents and save lives, often with limited success. Now, they have found a promising solution: zig-zag barricades at black spots. According to the traffic police, these barricades force motorists to slow down and prevent speeding, a leading cause of fatal accidents.
Significant Reduction in Fatalities
Between January 1 and April 30, 2025, the city recorded 118 fatal accidents resulting in 120 deaths. During the same period in 2026, after installing the barricades, fatal accidents fell to 87 and deaths dropped to 88—a nearly 27% reduction. A police official stated that the initiative not only reduced accidents but also lessened their severity, as lower speeds reduce impact force.
Strategic Deployment
S. Ashok Kumar, Deputy Police Commissioner (Traffic), said the project launched early this year with 64 barricades at accident hotspots. These locations were selected after a multi-year analysis of black spots where high-speed driving frequently led to fatalities. "Speeding is the primary cause for most road tragedies, accounting for nearly 90% of accidents. Drivers often treat open stretches like highways. By installing zig-zag formations, we force them to maneuver cautiously, reducing speed and momentum," he explained.
Kumar acknowledged that barricades are not the sole reason for the decline. "It is one of several measures to improve road safety across the city." Another official noted that heavy-duty barricades are placed in a staggered, alternating pattern, compelling vehicles to follow an S-shaped path instead of a straight, high-speed line.
Public Response
Some commuters initially complained about delays, but the department maintained the inconvenience is minor compared to lives saved. R. Rajasekar, a 33-year-old taxi driver from Chettipalayam, said drivers initially found the barricades a hindrance but later adapted. He travels daily on Nanjundapuram Road, where accidents were once frequent, and noted no accidents since installation. J. Pradeep of Podanur called the initiative life-saving, though visibility remains poor at some locations. He witnessed motorists crashing into barricades occasionally but still described the measure as positive.
Future Plans
Encouraged by the sharp reduction in fatalities, the traffic department is considering extending the initiative to secondary roads and school zones.
