In a bid to tackle one of the leading causes of road accidents in Chennai, the Greater Chennai Traffic Police is ramping up its efforts to crack down on wrong-side driving, a reckless practice that poses a grave threat to road safety. With over 350 injuries and numerous fatalities attributed to this traffic violation annually, the deployment of specialized cameras and enforcement teams marks a significant step towards curbing this menace on city roads.
Each police station in Chennai has identified up to six critical junctions notorious for wrong-side driving, where cameras will be strategically installed. In the initial phase, attention will be focused on key locations such as Nandaham, Spencer’s Junction, and Poonamallee High Road near Koyambedu. These cameras, distinct from standard ones, are strategically positioned to capture violations from the opposite direction of traffic flow, ensuring comprehensive coverage and effective enforcement.
Furthermore, specialized teams equipped with tripod cameras will be stationed at accident-prone locations, providing an additional layer of surveillance to combat wrong-side driving. Standing at a height of six feet, these portable cameras offer a 360-degree view, enabling authorities to document vehicular movements accurately and gather evidence for prosecution. The integration of both Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for identifying drivers and tripod cameras for documenting offenses underscores the holistic approach adopted by law enforcement agencies in addressing this issue.
Official data from 2023 revealed a staggering 60,180 cases filed and the seizure of over 1,600 vehicles for repeat wrong-side driving offenses. Police attribute these violations to areas with ongoing metro rail and civic infrastructure projects, where motorists often resort to illegal maneuvers in search of shortcuts to avoid longer routes. However, urban planning experts highlight various contributing factors such as inefficient traffic planning, uneven carriageways, and inadequate lane markings and enforcement, underscoring the need for multifaceted interventions to address the root causes of wrong-side driving.