Coimbatore: Despite ongoing crackdowns, wrong-side driving remains a rampant traffic violation in Coimbatore. Motorists frequently flout rules to avoid U-turns and save a few minutes, posing serious risks to themselves and others.
According to a traffic officer, such violations are commonly observed on major stretches like Nanjappa Road, Kavundampalayam on Mettupalayam Road, Idayarpalayam Junction on Thadagam Road, and near the Uppilipalayam flyover on Avinashi Road.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) S Ashok Kumar warned that these shortcuts have deadly consequences. “Two months ago, a motorcyclist going the wrong way beneath the Eachanari bridge caused a fatal crash. Over the last eight months, four such deaths have been linked to wrong-side driving,” he said.
He emphasized that these incidents often happen during early morning or late night hours when traffic is sparse, but vehicles on the correct path move at high speeds, making collisions unavoidable.
“Motorists must understand that traveling a few extra metres is better than risking lives. It’s impossible to station personnel on every road,” he added. First-time violators will be warned, while repeat offenders will be fined ₹1,000.
G Manuneethi, Divisional Engineer (Road Safety) with the Highways Department, said advanced traffic surveillance cameras should be installed to detect and deter violations. “Awareness alone isn’t enough. Strong enforcement backed by technology is the need of the hour,” he stressed.