In a significant move to decongest a key intersection, Madurai city authorities have successfully implemented a new signal-free U-turn traffic system at the busy Ponmeni junction on the Bypass Road. This initiative comes after the notable success of a similar arrangement introduced last year at the Arapalayam junction near Guru Theatre.
How the New Signal-Free System Works
The Ponmeni junction, which was previously a bustling cross junction managing traffic between the Bypass Road, Ponmeni, and SS Colony, has now been physically closed using barricades. Under the new arrangement, vehicles originating from Ponmeni and SS Colony are permitted a free left turn to merge onto the Bypass Road. Once on the main road, drivers can either continue straight or take a U-turn approximately 100 metres ahead to change direction.
Conversely, traffic already on the Bypass Road can turn left towards Ponmeni or SS Colony as they did before. The core idea is to eliminate the need for a traffic signal by separating merging and turning movements, allowing for a continuous flow.
Public and Police Response to the Change
Initial feedback from daily commuters has been largely positive, with many reporting reduced congestion and shorter travel times since the system's implementation. A traffic police officer stationed at the junction confirmed the improvement, stating that the new setup has ensured smooth traffic movement all day, even during peak hours.
"Ponmeni is a densely populated area, and the earlier junction often caused heavy congestion," the officer explained. "The new system allows vehicles to merge seamlessly." He added that police personnel will remain deployed at the spot for a few more days to assist motorists in adapting to the new pattern.
Concerns and Future Expansion Plans
Despite the overall success, some practical challenges have been noted. Auto-rickshaw driver R Silambarasan pointed out that larger vehicles like buses and lorries struggle with the U-turn due to their wider turning radius. He suggested installing additional barricades on the Bypass Road to slow down approaching traffic, thereby preventing potential pile-ups during such manoeuvres.
However, a senior traffic police official stated that no major issues have been reported in the week since the system's launch, and traffic flow has remained consistently smooth. Encouraged by the positive outcomes at both Arapalayam and now Ponmeni, the state highways department is already planning to replicate this model. The next stretch identified for a similar signal-free U-turn system is the Kalavasal–Theni road.
This proactive approach to traffic management highlights a shift towards innovative, infrastructure-led solutions to tackle urban congestion in Tamil Nadu's temple city.
