Road rage ramifications

Wednesday, 16 February 2011 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

PRACTICALITY is valued only when it is absent. The Police has decided to fine jaywalkers and also prosecute drivers parking on the pavement, an offence punishable with a minimum fine of Rs. 5,000. The intention seems to be to beautify the city and create a more conducive environment for citizens; but the practical application of this can have different results.

Jaywalkers and errant motorists exist for a reason. There aren’t sufficient parking lots around the city for motorists to use when they are moving around for their needs; moreover, sufficient security and awareness is not provided to these people either. Therefore, the result is vehicles being parked on the pavement, creating massive hardship for everyone, and pedestrians are forced onto the road, resulting in extra discomfort to other drivers, and on occasion even causing accidents.

From the viewpoint of the pedestrians, they are often forced to walk extra as pedestrian crossings are few and far between on Colombo streets. There are also instances when roads are repaired without pedestrian crossings being repainted or worn out lines not being brushed up. Moreover, Sri Lankan drivers also need to be more aware of road rules and be sensitive to the requirements of pedestrians. Many are the times when a whole lot of pedestrians have to wait at pedestrian crossings before motorists stop for them.

Clearly, there are glitches in the system. When obvious reasons exist for the behaviour of both pedestrians and motorists, the response should be more practical than slapping on fines and carrying out arrests. Cultivating good citizens cannot happen overnight and the authorities must also consider the long-term results of their actions. While implementing laws can on the surface seem laudable, their sustainability must also be considered.

The Western Provincial Council and the Municipal Councils must use their tax money more wisely. Better roads with regular parking spots can create more conscientious motorists. If people are given safe parking closer to the main commercial areas, they will be open to funding the ventures. Motorists and pedestrians need practical options, not heavy-handed measures that will only cause more resentment.

If the public is forced into impractical implementation of the law without taking their side of the story into consideration, then naturally they too will be provoked into dismissing the law. If parking options are made available, then many will take that option of their own accord without extra enforcement from the Police. The same can be said of pedestrians; after all, everyone wants to go about their business with the least amount of hassle.

Developing Colombo is a heartfelt need, but many would agree that there are many other issues such as drainage and housing that need to be addressed in city planning. Sporadic implementation of laws will only result in more estrangement between the Police and public, serving no one. Careful consideration of development measures and the areas they can be used in would do far more to resolve the problems facing the burgeoning population of Colombo rather than implementing impractical fines. In addition, it would pave the way for a constructive relationship between the public and the Police that would resolve traffic issues in the long-term.