City drivers seem to have no regards for the zebra crossings around as they zoom over the black and white shades ignoring the rights of the pedestrians.
Motorists usually do not bother about zebra/pedestrian crossings especially in areas where there are no traffic personnel and the insensitivity means that children, the sick, the aged and pregnant women are the ones stranded at the mercy of these over-speeding vehicles.
Many a times, the pedestrian is left with no choice but to run across risking his life in the process. Adding to it, many a driver do not bother to slow down despite road signs instructing them to abide by certain speed limits.
A government employee working in the Meghalaya Secretariat said, “What I find most appalling is the drivers’ blatant disregard for the pedestrian crossings. Most motorists do not fathom its significance.”
“Many drivers are seemingly oblivious of the pedestrians’ presence and simply proceed at breakneck speed along their way,” said another annoyed pedestrian.
“And, invariably some who permit them (pedestrians) to cross, consider it a favour,” he added. While pointing that he has been fortunate to see drivers in other parts of the country display a high level of respect for pedestrian crossings, he said that once pedestrians congregate at the crossing, there is almost an abrupt stop of vehicular traffic to allow them free movement.
It has been observed that the heavy traffic in the city has also been instrumental in abetting overspeeding since drivers look to make up for the lost time in traffic jams by pshing the accelator whenever they are offered with an opportunity.
Meanwwhile, a traffic personnel said, “Pedestrians literally sprint across the crossing. This is very dangerous. They should not to scurry across or be apprehensive about doing so once they have signalled their intention to cross in advance. It is to avoid this that zebra crossings are in place.”
According to the traffic personnel, motorists have an obligation to stop on a zebra crossing as soon as pedestrians step onto it. As per traffic rules, no vehicle should stop or overtake in the ‘controlled area’ of the crossing which is usually indicated by zig-zag lines and parking is prohibited in the area. (Lamphrang Nongspung)