Mumbai's traffic police have embarked on a comprehensive crash analysis campaign to address the escalating number of fatal accidents in the city. A three-member team recently visited multiple accident sites with the aim of identifying causes and implementing potential improvements. A Hindustan Times report stated that their initial investigation focused on the northbound road leading to Govandi-Panjrapole outside Shivaji Nagar Dargah on the Eastern Freeway.
Fatal Accident at Shivaji Nagar Dargah
At the Shivaji Nagar Dargah location, a tragic incident occurred on May 30, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old man and a 55-year-old passenger. The collision involved a speeding taxi and the pedestrian. The taxi driver, identified as Mohammed Sharif Musahib Ali Shaikh, 64, was arrested for negligence leading to death. Another passenger in the taxi sustained injuries. Despite immediate medical attention, both victims succumbed to their injuries. Shaikh initially fled but was apprehended later in Wadala.
Identifying Safety Issues
The crash analysis team discovered several safety concerns at the Shivaji Nagar Dargah accident site. The height of the boundary wall along the freeway was found to be inadequate, measuring only 2.5 feet. This allowed pedestrians to easily cross or access the freeway, posing a significant risk considering the speed limit of 80 kilometers per hour. Additionally, the absence of signboards prohibiting taxi stops and the lack of speed breakers added to the safety hazards.
Proposed Solutions
In response to their findings, the traffic police promptly addressed the safety issues. They have urged the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) to increase the boundary wall's height to five feet. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) was also requested to install signboards and rumblers to effectively control vehicle speed. These measures aim to improve overall safety, mitigating risks associated with pedestrians and taxis.
Broader Analysis and Future Steps
The crash analysis extended beyond the Shivaji Nagar Dargah accident site. Pravin Padwal, the joint commissioner of police (Traffic), revealed that 132 lives were lost in 121 fatal accidents in Mumbai until June this year. To comprehensively address this issue, the traffic police formed a dedicated team comprising three officials. This team is conducting in-depth crash analyses at each identified accident site, considering factors such as road width, collision points, distances between vehicles and pedestrians, ongoing infrastructure projects, and road conditions. A detailed report will be generated based on these analyses.
Implementation of Safety Measures
Prompt action is a priority for the traffic police. Once the crash analysis report is reviewed, appropriate measures will be swiftly implemented to prevent future accidents. This may involve assigning additional staff or installing traffic signals as recommended by the analysis. Close collaboration with the BMC and MMRDA will ensure the seamless integration of the proposed safety improvements. Regular site visits will be conducted to monitor progress and verify the successful implementation of the suggested changes.
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