With temperatures soaring beyond 36°C in Belagavi, citizens are intensifying their demand for immediate changes to traffic signal timings across the city.
Daily commuters, especially two-wheeler riders, are now calling on authorities to cap signal wait times between 60 and 80 seconds to reduce exposure to extreme heat.
Long Signals, Rising Frustration
At several major junctions, signal cycles currently stretch up to 140 seconds (2 minutes 20 seconds)—a duration many residents say is excessive under harsh summer conditions.
Key problem areas include:
- Rani Chennamma Circle – 140 seconds (2 Min 20 Seconds)
- Gogte Circle – 140 seconds (2 Min 20 Seconds)
- Khade Bazaar – 120 se seconds (2 Min)
- Basaveshwara Circle – 140 seconds (2 Min 20 Seconds)
- Nehru Nagar – 120 seconds (2 Min)
- Shri Krishna Devaraya Circle – 140 seconds (2 Min 20 Seconds)
- Ashoka Pillar Circle – 140 seconds (2 Min 20 Seconds)
- Globe Talkies Junction – 120 se seconds (2 Min)
- Ayodhya Nagar Junction (UK 27) – 90 seconds (1 min 30 seconds)
Commuters argue that such prolonged halts under direct sunlight, combined with heat radiating from roads and vehicle engines, are making daily travel increasingly unbearable.
Why 60–80 Seconds?
Reducing signal timings to 60–80 seconds would strike a balance between traffic flow and commuter safety.
- Reduced Heat Exposure: Shorter waits mean less time under direct sun
- Better Traffic Movement: Faster cycles can prevent long vehicle queues
- Improved Public Health: Minimizes risks of dehydration, dizziness, and heatstroke
“Even reducing the wait by a minute can make a huge difference in this heat. Standing for over two minutes on a hot road is exhausting,” said Anand, a daily commuter.
Health Risks Cannot Be Ignored
Medical experts warn that prolonged exposure to high temperatures—especially while stationary in traffic—can lead to serious health complications, including heat exhaustion and sudden fatigue.
Two-wheeler riders, delivery personnel, and elderly commuters remain the most vulnerable groups.
Call to Belagavi Traffic Police
Citizens are now urging the traffic department to implement a temporary “Summer Signal Plan”, which includes:
- Fixing maximum wait times at 60–80 seconds
- Increasing signal rotation frequency during peak heat hours (12 PM – 4 PM)
- Deploying traffic personnel at major junctions for manual regulation if needed
Time for Swift Action
While officials are reportedly monitoring traffic conditions, commuters stress that urgent intervention is necessary before peak summer intensifies further.
For thousands navigating the city’s busy roads every day, a reduction in signal timings is not just about convenience—it is about health, safety, and basic commuting comfort in extreme weather conditions.
