PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
In Mohabbewala, frequent accidents have become a serious concern for the local residents. Over the past five months, at least five accidents have been reported from the area, making the insecure residents raise questions about road safety and traffic management. Things further worsened after another accident on Saturday, prompting the police to take immediate action.
Authorities have now installed barricades near a U-turn point, which the locals describe as a ‘head-on collision point,’ especially for heavy vehicles because of its dangerous proneness to accidents.
According to the residents, the road has a downward slope towards the city, causing heavy vehicles to gain speed. This becomes dangerous when vehicles suddenly enter from connecting local roads, often leading to loss of control or brake failure.
Local traders shared their concerns, saying that despite a speed limit fixed of 40 km/h for heavy vehicles, many drivers ignore it and drive at high speed. One employee at a shop noted that it is common to see multiple heavy vehicles speeding together on the sloping road, something which increases the risk of accidents.
Residents have welcomed the police’s decision to install barricades, hoping it will help slow down vehicles and mitigate accidents. However, many believe that police must be more proactive with strict enforcement. Otherwise, mere barricading would not suffice, said a local. Another said that crossing the road is particularly risky, as fast-moving heavy vehicles cannot stop easily on the slope. “This requires the police to be more alert,” he added.
People also fear that with the opening of the Delhi–Dehradun Expressway, the traffic volume and accidents may increase further. “To prevent things from worsening, the authorities must step up efforts to make the vehicles comply with the road safety rules,” noted a senior citizen from the area.
