Thiruvananthapuram: Chathanpara junction on the Kallambalam national highway has become a major safety hazard due to uncontrolled traffic, lack of signals, and absence of police deployment, putting pedestrians and commuters at constant risk.
Heavy Traffic and Safety Concerns
The busy junction connects roads to Nedumbaram and Manampur and sees heavy movement of students, interstate travellers, and local residents. Despite repeated complaints, vehicles rarely slow down at crossings. Reckless driving and honking are common, making it difficult for people to cross safely.
"We are aware of the people's concerns. Proposals for installing traffic signals and improving regulation at the junction are under consideration," said a senior police officer.
Accident Statistics
At least nine people have lost their lives in accidents at the junction over the past four years, while more than 250 mishaps are reported annually in the broader stretch, according to local police estimates.
People travelling from Varkala railway station to a private engineering college in Nedumbaram, a centre for national-level examinations, frequently pass through the junction, adding to congestion. Tipper trucks carrying construction materials and encroachments by parked two-wheelers further worsen the situation, said locals. Nearby Kaduvayil junction also faces similar challenges, with heavy crowding due to places of worship, an auditorium, and a school in the vicinity. Traffic snarls and speeding vehicles have made the area accident-prone.
Demands for Action
Locals have long demanded urgent measures, including traffic signals, a police aid post, and a flyover. However, no concrete action has been taken so far, raising concerns.
"We urged the authorities several times to at least deploy a home guard at the junction, but nothing has been done. Crossing the road here has become a daily struggle. Vehicles don't slow down, and there is no police or signal to control traffic. We are risking our lives every time we step onto the road," said Francis A, an ex-serviceman and resident.
Official Response
Meanwhile, National Highways Authority of India officials said the issue had been noted and necessary action could be taken after the model code of conduct for the elections was lifted.
