Solution to traffic
THE EDITOR: What is the reason for all the traffic-jams that we have to endure every day? An examination of the situation will reveal one major reason. People are driving too closely to each other. Hence the name jam. In this country where selfishness and in- consideration has become commonplace it is ignorant to believe that people will solve this problem on their own. It is, therefore, up to the government to solve the problem. What happens when a traffic offender is pulled over by a police officer? The offender immediately gets into a dialogue with the officer and the charge is discussed, argued and solved on the spot. The driver has survived that encounter and is free to commit another breach of law at some other time and place. In first World countries there is no discussion with the officer. A ticket is issued and you are sent on your way. This is one thing which has to be put into effect here in Trinidad. So here we have thoughtless drivers on one hand and sympathetic police on the other and we are left with the same problem of uncontrolled traffic. My solution is simple, maybe too simple for any government officer to give any thought to it. It is also extremely low budget, definitely something for any politician to avoid like the plague. Quite simply, what has to be done is to create gaps in traffic. And how is that to be done you may ask. The answer lies in existing traffic lights. Depending on their location allow all red lights to shine between the alternating changes in traffic direction ie when one direction changes from green to red, allow the other red to remain on for a period of 30 to 60 seconds before allowing the alternate traffic to move. Depending on the allowable speed limit for the area this can create a gap in the flow of traffic of approximately half a mile to a mile. If this idea seems hair-brained to anyone, all that is needed is an experimental area and if it does not have the desired effect then no one loses. But, should it work wouldn’t you come out smelling like roses? I am willing to bet that it will be more effective than all the high cost plans that are being thrown about. By the way, the police will still be needed to control the speeders who will revel in the new-found spaces and others who are uncomfortable unless they are tailgating. RICHARD DEANE Diego Martin
Comments
"Solution to traffic"