In a significant development for thousands of commuters in the Bawadia Kalan and Danapani areas, the persistent problem of massive traffic congestion has been addressed with the activation of a modern traffic signal system. The move comes as a major relief for residents who previously faced agonising delays of up to two hours near the Danapani junction and the newly-constructed Rail Over Bridge (ROB).

 

The administration’s swift action has replaced chaotic gridlocks with a regulated and streamlined flow of vehicles, transforming one of the city’s most troubled transit points. Bawadia Kalan has witnessed a residential boom in recent years, leading to a surge in vehicular density. Data indicates that during peak hours, primarily school and office commutes, the traffic volume at the Danapani intersection reaches a staggering 4,000 passenger car units (PCU). In the absence of a formal signalling system, vehicles from all four directions used to converge simultaneously, creating a complete standstill that hindered the movement of emergency services and daily commuters alike. Swift action post Commissioner’s review:

 

The turnaround followed an on-site inspection by Police Commissioner Sanjay Kumar on February 11. Analysing the root causes alongside senior officials from the Smart City Company, Municipal Corporation, and PWD, the Commissioner ordered immediate technical intervention. Consequently, advanced signals were installed and programmed based on varying traffic density during morning, afternoon, and evening slots to ensure a continuous ‘Green Wave’ effect, minimising the wait time at the intersection.

 

Long-term infrastructure planning: While the signals provide immediate respite, a comprehensive long-term blueprint has been finalised to accommodate future growth. According to the Public Works Department (PWD), an extensive road-widening project is slated to begin at the Danapani junction soon. This expansion plan includes the development of dedicated lanes at all four corners of the junction to allow free left turns, ensuring that left-turning traffic can bypass the signal without delay. Additionally, the project involves the widening of the canal-side road to facilitate smoother transit for vehicles arriving from Ishwar Nagar and 11 Number Stop. Residents breathe a sigh of relief: Local residents and regular commuters have expressed immense satisfaction with the new system. A frequent commuter remarked that the intersection was previously a free-for-all where two-wheelers and cars would get tangled in the middle, taking hours to clear, whereas now there is an orderly queue and predictable movement.