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Recently, the Bangalore Traffic Police fixed new speed limit for different kinds of vehicles. As per the new rule, the maximum speed limit for cars is 60 kms, two-wheelers - 50 kms and three-wheelers - 40 kms. However, there is a rider as well. While driving in the central districts of the City, motorists need to keep a minimum distance from other vehicles. Accordingly, a motorist needs to have a safe-stopping area of 30 metres while driving at 50 kms and 36 metres while driving at 60 kms. The police says that there was a need to make changes due to the increasing vehicle density. But in which part of the City can one actually drive at that speed, wonders the common man.
Many people feel that there are two sides to this move. On one hand, by having a uniform speed limit, the traffic police is all set to remove confusion about varying speed limits inside the City earlier.
Secondly, such a move would actually put an end to overspeeding and minimise accidents.
Tania, who regularly drives in the city limits, says there is no point in increasing the speed limit. “I can’t remember the last time I drove at 60 kms in the City, except on Sundays, when some of the roads are considerably free. And frankly I don’t know how many people will actually follow the rule,” she adds.
Even the auto drivers seem to be indifferent to the rule. Many are satisfied with the limit of 40 kms set for them. Says Devaraj, an auto driver, “With the kind of traffic we have during peak hours, it’s impossible to cross 40 kms, so such a rule makes no
difference.”
For many, the speed limit is too less. Rosanna, a consultant, says that having a uniform speed is a good move to clear out confusion among drivers but it simply isn’t justified. “At the time of emergency, one can’t really stick to just 60 kms or 40 kms on the road,” adds Rosanna, who regularly travels in autos and cabs.
Along with the change in speed limit, the traffic police has also increased the fine for violators. For overspeeding, a fine of Rs 300 has been fixed for the first time offenders; second time violators will be fined Rs 600 while the third time, the driver’s licence will be suspended.
“I completely welcome this rule. Many times we see people overspeed and get away with it by paying just Rs 100, but now with high fines I feel one will actually think twice before doing the same,” says Rachana, a student.
Speeding is not the only factor that leads to more accidents and chaos on Bangalore roads. Other factors like lack of lane discipline, footpath and even narrow roads also contribute to the problem. Glen, a consultant, feels that more than putting a brake on vehicle speed, the authorities should concentrate on ensuring that the roads are wide enough.
“On such narrow roads, it’s hard for people to follow lane discipline and keep a constant speed. Looking at the way the City is growing, government should be more prepared. Even people should be educated about the changes that are taking place,” he
says.