Madurai Collector inspects NH-38 accident zones, directs swift road safety upgrades

Madurai District Collector Nishant Krishna inspected accident-prone zones along the National Highway 38, specifically focusing the Madurai–Tiruchi corridor in Melur taluk, to review and enforce safety measures discussed in the District Road Safety Committee meeting.

Beginning his tour at the Ruth Medu junction, the Collector instructed officials to repair a damaged high-mast streetlight, reinforce existing speed breakers, and install clear “Go Slowly” warning boards for motorists.

Moving on to the Pudupatti junction, he ordered the installation of new high-mast streetlights, hazard warnings, and T-junction signs.

To tackle localised safety hazards, he mandated the replacement of damaged metal crash barriers, the setup of pedestrian guardrails for safe crossings, and the erection of rest-area warning boards.

Further, he directed authorities to periodically monitor the area to prevent roadside parking by vehicles visiting the nearby hotel and to trim roadside tree branches to ensure clear visibility for drivers.

Continuing his inspection at Vellamaraippatti, the Collector stressed the urgent need to install high-mast and mini-mast lights at identified accident spots, close unauthorised median openings, and set up wrong-way direction warning boards to curb errant two-wheeler riders and pedestrians.

He also emphasised that strict fines must be levied against traffic rule violators. Later, at Valasaippatti, he ordered the repair of broken median barriers and damaged metal beam crash beams alongside fresh hazard warning signs.

At Pandangudi, he instructed officials to execute vital safety enhancements before sharp curves, including laying rumbling strips, sealing unauthorized two-wheeler cross-paths, restoring non-functional warning lights, and replacing compromised crash barriers to safeguard commuters along the busy highway.