As the second wave of COVID-19 subsided in Manipur and the government started unlocking, many public and private vehicles began to ply as usual. And with it, traffic congestion also increased.
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As Imphal begins to bounce back to its normal self after COVID-19 induced restriction has left life to a standstill for months, the problems of traffic resurfaces again. Adding to the woes are the defunct traffic signals spread across the capital city of Manipur.
Some of the important traffic points in the city include Kwakeithel, Keishampat, Raj Bhawan, Western and Northern gate of Kangla, Khuyathong, Chingmeirong, Chief Minister Bunglow, Singjamei, etc.
As the second wave of COVID-19 subsided in Manipur and the government started unlocking, many public and private vehicles began to ply as usual. And with it, traffic congestion also increased.
Although traffic police personnel are managing the important traffic points, they are not available the whole day. In the presence of traffic police, commuters adhere to the rules to some extent. But it is a chaotic scene when they are absent.
When the traffic signals were introduced in the state, the commuters had to be educated. With public awareness and messages in newspapers, the people gradually adapted to the new system and began following the traffic signals. But after a long gap, many are witnessing the same old chaotic traffic congestion. And the non-functional signals are not helping at the moment.
Some traffic police personnel on duty in Imphal told TFM that although they are performing their duties at their level best. But some commuters always try to cut corners, not adhering to the traffic rules. It not only creates inconvenience, but is also dangerous to other commuters, they added.
When the traffic signals were functional, it helped the personnel immensely. It not only helped in maintaining order, it gave the personnel more chances to nab those violating traffic rules.
Although there were reports of fixing the traffic signals a while ago, it has not been translated to action till date. Many are wishing to see these signals functioning again as the conjunctions are getting worse.