Nagpur, India: The Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) has implemented advanced signal bollards at important intersections in South-West Nagpur to enhance traffic management and ensure pedestrian safety. 

These illuminated bollards are synchronized with traffic lights, improving visibility and assisting both drivers and pedestrians in navigating the roads.

The installation has been finalized at seven significant junctions, including Pratap Nagar, Sawarkar Nagar Square, and several T-points along four main routes, according to Rajendra Rathod, executive engineer (Electrical) of the NMC.

“The NMC is using leftover funds initially allocated for the G20 Summit to install these bollards,” Rathod stated. He also mentioned that the cost of each bollard is around ₹20,000.

The new bollards are strategically installed at high-traffic intersections to enhance pedestrian safety and optimize traffic flow. By designating safe zones, they prevent vehicles from invading pedestrian spaces, maintaining a safer distance between pedestrians and moving traffic. Furthermore, the illuminated bollards direct pedestrians to marked crossing areas, encouraging orderly passage across the streets.

One of the most congested intersections, Pratap Nagar Square, has reportedly experienced noticeable improvements following the installation. Residents have noted that drivers are now stopping behind the designated stop lines, which has decreased congestion at the junction. “In the past, drivers frequently stopped past the stop line, but now they are behaving more responsibly,” said motorist Dinesh Kale.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve seven road junctions in the Laxmi Nagar area of South-West Nagpur, which includes new road markings and repairs aimed at alleviating traffic congestion. “The illuminated bollards, particularly at night, are anticipated to minimize confusion and enhance road safety, especially for pedestrians,” Rathod added.

Simultaneously, the NMC’s traffic department has been focused on enhancing the layout of six traffic intersections, with work currently underway at five more. The plan also involves upgrading 12 additional junctions in the near future as part of the comprehensive improvement initiative.

NMC officials believe that by improving traffic management and beautifying intersections, the project will greatly enhance the city's traffic system.