In a proactive move to safeguard citizens during the upcoming Uttarayan festival, the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC) has launched a critical safety initiative. The civic body is installing protective cables on key bridges across the city to prevent severe injuries caused by sharp kite-flying strings.
New Safety Infrastructure for Festival Season
The core of this project involves the installation of Galvanized Iron (GI) cables on poles along several bridges. The primary objective is to create a physical barrier that catches loose, stray kite strings before they can come into contact with commuters, particularly those on two-wheelers. This measure directly addresses a long-standing public safety hazard that has led to injuries and even fatalities in previous years during the kite-flying fervor.
Scope, Cost, and Official Statement
The safety cables will be installed on a total of 17 bridges throughout Vadodara. The municipal corporation has allocated a budget of approximately Rs 95,000 for this essential project. VMC Standing Committee Chairman, Sheetal Mistry, emphasized that the initiative is fundamentally aimed at enhancing public safety during the popular festival. By ensuring that dangerous strings fall onto the cables instead of entangling unsuspecting riders, the VMC hopes to create a safer environment for all.
Appeal for Responsible Celebrations
Alongside the infrastructural upgrade, Chairman Mistry issued a strong appeal to the residents of Vadodara. He urged citizens to celebrate responsibly by adhering to the following guidelines:
- Avoid the use of banned Chinese or nylon manja (kite string), which is extremely sharp and non-biodegradable.
- Always wear helmets while riding two-wheelers, as they provide crucial protection.
- Refrain from flying kites near roads and bridges to minimize risks to vehicular traffic.
This combined approach of infrastructure and public awareness underscores the civic body's commitment to preventing accidents and ensuring that the joyous festival of Uttarayan is not marred by tragedy.
