Visakhapatnam: GVMC’s ‘free left turn’ scheme to ease traffic jams
Visakhapatnam: In response to the city’s rapidly growing population and vehicular pressure, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has launched a significant initiative to improve traffic management. The corporation administration has developed a plan to develop “free left turn” (free left turn) at major intersections in the city to alleviate traffic congestion. The primary objective of this initiative is to reduce long queues at red signals and save commuters time.
20 Congested Junctions Identified
Following a joint survey by corporation officials and traffic police, approximately 20 major junctions in the city have been identified where traffic comes to a crawl during peak hours. Left-turn vehicles at these junctions also block the path of straight-moving vehicles.
Under the plan, these junctions will be widened and any obstructions such as electric poles, billboards, or other obstructions will be removed. This will allow left-turning vehicles to proceed smoothly without waiting for signals.
Key Features of the Project
Road Widening: Footpaths and available government land will be used to create additional space at turns.
Relocation of Obstacles: Electrical transformers and telephone lines located at the corners of junctions will be relocated.
Signboards and Markings: Clear ‘Left Free’ signs and thermal paint markings will be installed on the road for the convenience of drivers.
Smart Traffic Management: The plan will be linked to the city’s Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC) to monitor traffic flow.
Benefits to Commuters and the Environment
This decision by the GVMC will not only relieve commuters’ mental stress but also have environmental benefits. Reducing vehicle idling at traffic signals will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
According to the Municipal Commissioner, “The city’s infrastructure is being prepared for future needs. The free left turn facility will eliminate the bottleneck problem and facilitate easy passage for emergency vehicles like ambulances.”
Budget and Timeline
The Municipal Corporation has allocated a special budget for this project. In the first phase, work will begin at 10 junctions with the highest risk of accidents. Officials have been instructed to carry out construction work at night to avoid inconvenience to the general public. It is estimated that the facility will be fully operational at all identified junctions within the next six months.
Challenges and Solutions
Encroachment by private properties at some locations is a major challenge in implementing the project. However, the GVMC administration has clarified that they will resolve this process by negotiating with the property owners and paying compensation as per regulations. Additionally, the traffic police have been strictly instructed to prevent illegal parking at these junctions so that the purpose of ‘free left’ is not defeated.
This GVMC plan is a practical step towards making Visakhapatnam a ‘smart city’. If implemented properly, it will not only make Vizag’s roads safer but also enhance the city’s modern image. Local residents have also welcomed this initiative and expressed hope that it will significantly reduce daily travel time.
