KMRL offers to ease traffic congestion during monsoon

Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has offered to improve the road safety and traffic management measures along the Kakkand route where the phase 2 project work is progressing in view of the impending monsoon.

The southwest monsoon is expected to begin next week.

More traffic wardens will be deputed at key locations to regulate traffic flow and assist pedestrians. An internal committee has been constituted to continuously monitor traffic safety and coordinate necessary interventions during the monsoon period, according to a communication.

Additional reflectors and reflective tapes have been installed on barricades to improve visibility during nighttime and low-light conditions. Barricades at several locations have been realigned to provide better driver guidance and safer traffic movement. Barricades are being gradually removed on the road stretches where the works have been completed. Such a measure will ease congestion and improve road accessibility. Additional pedestrian crossings have been placed in required areas and the barricade heights have been reduced in selected areas to enhance visibility and commuter convenience, the communication said.

The KMRL has directed all its contractors to undertake comprehensive monsoon preparedness activities at construction sites including the securing of construction materials, stabilising temporary structures, and deploying de-watering equipment in vulnerable and low-lying areas. All drains and water discharge channels under KMRL’s jurisdiction are being cleaned and cleared to prevent waterlogging and flooding, it said.

Dedicated Emergency Response Teams comprising trained safety personnel and KMRL staff are being deployed at construction sites to respond swiftly to any unforeseen incidents during the monsoon. Instructions have been issued prohibiting the dumping of construction materials on public roads during the monsoon season, informed the firm.