Pedestrians crossing through moving traffic instead of using the zebra crossing has become a regular and dangerous sight at the busy signal below the Ulubari Flyover. Despite visible road markings and traffic signals, many people are seen cutting across lanes, forcing vehicles to brake suddenly and increasing the risk of accidents at one of Guwahati’s most crowded junctions.
The Ulubari flyover signal connects multiple key routes and experiences heavy traffic throughout the day. Cars, buses, two-wheelers, autorickshaws, and trucks move through the intersection almost continuously, leaving little margin for error when pedestrians enter the roadway unpredictably.
What is happening at the Ulubari signal
At the Ulubari flyover signal in Guwahati, pedestrians frequently cross roads through moving traffic instead of using the designated zebra crossing. Many cross from random points or ignore pedestrian signals, forcing vehicles to stop abruptly and increasing the risk of accidents at this high-traffic junction.
Zebra crossing ignored amid constant traffic flow
Even though the zebra crossing at the signal is clearly marked, it remains largely unused. Pedestrians are often seen stepping onto the road from random points, walking between vehicles, or crossing diagonally while traffic is in motion. In several instances, people cross even when the pedestrian signal is red.
This behaviour is most visible during peak hours, particularly in the morning and evening, when office-goers, vendors, and daily commuters cross the road in large numbers.
Commuters report frequent near-miss situations
Regular commuters say the lack of basic road discipline among pedestrians has added to congestion and confusion at the junction. Drivers are often forced to slow down or stop abruptly when people suddenly appear in front of moving vehicles.
Such sudden braking leads to near-miss incidents, traffic pile-ups, and frequent honking. Motorists also point out that navigating the junction has become increasingly stressful due to unpredictable pedestrian movement.
Road safety concerns for both pedestrians and drivers
Traffic observers note that while drivers are often blamed for accidents, pedestrian behaviour plays a significant role in overall road safety. At the Ulubari signal, many pedestrians assume vehicles will stop for them, even during active traffic flow.
Experts warn that this assumption can be dangerous, especially at a junction where heavy vehicles and two-wheelers move close together with limited stopping distance.
Weak enforcement and low awareness add to the problem
The situation is further compounded by inadequate awareness and weak enforcement of pedestrian traffic rules. Traffic regulations clearly require pedestrians to use zebra crossings and obey pedestrian signals, but violations at this junction rarely attract penalties.
In the absence of strict action or sustained awareness drives, unsafe crossing habits have continued unchecked, putting both pedestrians and motorists at constant risk.
Why this matters for Guwahati
The Ulubari flyover signal is a critical traffic node in the city, and unsafe pedestrian behaviour here increases the likelihood of serious accidents. With traffic volumes continuing to rise in Guwahati, experts say improving pedestrian discipline is as important as regulating vehicle movement.
Ensuring safer crossings at such junctions could help reduce congestion, prevent injuries, and improve overall traffic flow.
What happens next
Traffic observers suggest that stricter enforcement, clearer pedestrian guidance, and awareness campaigns may be required to address the issue. Whether authorities take targeted action at the Ulubari signal remains to be seen.
For now, commuters are urging pedestrians to use designated zebra crossings and wait for the correct signal to ensure safety for everyone on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Ulubari flyover signal considered risky for pedestrians?
The junction carries heavy traffic throughout the day, and pedestrians often cross through moving vehicles instead of using the zebra crossing, increasing accident risk.
Are there traffic rules for pedestrians at signals in Guwahati?
Yes, pedestrians are required to use zebra crossings and follow pedestrian signals, but enforcement and compliance remain weak at several busy junctions.
