For years, experts have called for enhanced safety measures on flyovers, such as increasing the height of boundary walls or installing metal mesh. However, government agencies responsible for maintaining these bridges have largely ignored these recommendations. The recent death of a 20-year-old has reignited concerns about flyover safety.
Many tragic incidents involve people falling to their deaths from flyovers after being struck by speeding vehicles on the roads below. With 32 flyovers and railway over bridges (ROB) in the city, many lack adequate safety measures. Additionally, none of the flyovers are equipped with CCTV cameras, making it difficult for police to investigate accidents or crimes effectively.
Commissioner of Police Ravinder Singal addressed the media, stating that the police department would study the issue and ensure that relevant agencies implement necessary safety measures on flyovers promptly.
Retired ACP (Traffic) Jameel Ahmed emphasized the need for installing iron mesh on flyovers to prevent accidents. “Distractions are a primary cause of accidents on flyovers, which can be mitigated by installing iron mesh at strategic locations. Other contributing factors include parked hand carts and auto rickshaws, as well as people standing on flyovers to watch processions below. Erecting a mesh will address these issues,” said Ahmed. He also recommended setting speed limits, installing speed guns, and putting up signboards.
“Strict enforcement of traffic rules is essential. Violators should be fined, and public awareness campaigns are needed to curb speeding on flyovers,” added Ahmed.
In 2022, the traffic police conducted a survey highlighting issues like speeding and lane violations on flyovers and bridges. The survey recommended safety measures such as installing iron mesh and warning signboards. Local media have repeatedly reported the urgent need for these safety measures.
A recent incident in March: Siblings Mohd Irfan Ansari (31) and Fauziya Fahad Ansari (21) were severely injured when a drunk motorist rammed their moped, throwing them off the Pachpaoli bridge. They survived, but many others have not been as fortunate.
The continuous disregard for safety on flyovers has led to preventable tragedies. Immediate action is needed to ensure these structures are safe for all users.