When it comes to regulating traffic, Porvorim seems to be ahead of the learning curve and if the MLA has his way, the section of NH17 that falls within this area could become the first in the State to have synchronised signal lights at key junctions. For Porvorim, it all began a few years back when a decision was taken to install signal lights at one of the busiest circles adjacent to O Coqueiro. The signal lights brought instant relief and vehicle users literally embraced the idea with both arms. Even without the presence of police personnel compliance is over 80 per cent. The result: traffic movement is smooth baring a few hiccups which have more to do with road engineering than traffic regulation. Subsequent to this, signal lights were installed at the junction near Holy Family Church, on account of which the stress experienced by vehicle owners at this place is now a thing of the past. Here too, compliance is very high simply because everyone is convinced that signal lights are a blessing and not a curse.
For Porvorim, the task is not yet over. The junction near ACDIL school is in desperate need of signal lights. Since traffic along the highway to and from Panaji is voluminous, vehicles crossing the highway from inner roads are forced to inch forward. This system of literally pushing oneself on to the road and across is stressful and installation of traffic signals at these two spots would help relieve pressure and infuse order into traffic movement. It is also heartening to learn that there are plans to install CCTV cameras to keep a check on offenders and synchronisation of signal lights so that a vehicle travelling at 35 to 40 km would automatically encounter green lights all through.
If the signal system is beginning to be accepted by vehicle owners it is because lights were introduced gradually, which is the right way of doing things in a country like India because it takes time for motorists to shift from instinctive driving to a rule-based traffic management system. The moot question is, why are other places in Goa lagging behind. Divja circle at the entrance of Panaji is desperately crying out for such a system, but the traffic department and the Corporation of the City of Panaji appear to be sleeping on the job. Traffic movement around this circle and most circles in Goa is quite chaotic with traffic halting around the circle instead of the exit points. The Colva Circle in Margao is another major junction which could do with a signaling system. On the other hand signals near the municipal building are a great help in regulating traffic flow within the city.
Use of signal lights to regulate traffic at junctions is a universally accepted system. Most Indian cities use signal lights, but Goa, one supposes, is ‘ajeeb’. In Panaji for instance, traffic is regulated through a system of one ways which have proved to be very successful. However, DB road which is the main artery for traffic entering and exiting the city needs a few signal lights and the CCP would do well to introduce the same, preferably with timers to facilitate smooth crossings. It might seem pretentious, but Panaji and Margao have something to learn from Porvorim.
