In a proactive move to enhance commuter safety during the dense winter fog, the Kanpur district administration has mandated a significant change in the operational hours of streetlights along national highways. The directive, issued by District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh on Thursday, aims to drastically reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring better visibility for drivers during the critical night and early morning hours.
New Timings for Enhanced Visibility
As per the official order, the staff responsible for highway maintenance have been instructed to switch on the lights at 5 pm and keep them operational until 8 am the following morning. This extended duration covers the peak fog periods, providing much-needed illumination for vehicles. Pankaj Yadav, the Project Director for National Highways in Kanpur, confirmed the new schedule, stating that the decision was taken keeping in mind the winter season and the security of traffic.
"With this arrangement, passengers would get better visibility during night and morning hours and travel will become safer," Yadav explained. The measure directly addresses the hazardous driving conditions created by the thick fog that blankets the region, a common winter phenomenon in North India.
Comprehensive Safety Campaign Underway
This change in lighting policy is part of a broader, continuous safety campaign spearheaded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Kanpur unit, coinciding with the ongoing Road Safety Month. Officials are conducting extensive public awareness programs at various toll plazas across the district to educate drivers about safe practices in low-visibility conditions.
Beyond awareness, tangible steps are being implemented on the ground. These include:
- Installation of reflective tapes on both heavy and light vehicles to increase their visibility at night.
- Regular night inspections to check the condition of all streetlights, with faulty units being repaired immediately.
- Active patrolling to remove vehicles that are illegally parked along the national highways, eliminating potential obstacles.
A Continuous Effort for Commuter Security
NHAI officials have emphasized that this campaign is not a one-off initiative but a sustained effort dedicated to the safety of daily commuters and long-distance travelers. By combining infrastructural adjustments like the changed light timings with enforcement and public outreach, the authorities aim to create a multi-layered defense against accidents.
The initiative highlights a responsive approach by the district administration and NHAI to seasonal challenges. As dense fog continues to pose a threat to road safety in Kanpur and surrounding areas, these coordinated measures are expected to play a crucial role in safeguarding lives on the busy national highways.
