Pune - Day 3: BRTS is Back to Business

Pune's BRTS went back to business today, its third day of service, with no mention of the death of a pedestrian yesterday. The buses were out again with an increased special squad of wardens to guard the dedicated bus lane from the inconsiderate traffic and other parts had fenced dividers installed today. Commuters remained overall pleased with their new service but drivers seemed to care less, a nod to the traffic lawlessness on Pune's roads.

... several motorists and riders refused to listen to the wardens and entered the dedicated lane. Two wardens at the Kasturchand Ramlal Surana chowk, trying in vain to control the traffic, said: “We have been deputed to stop people using the dedicated lane. However, motorists hardly listen.’’ And just then, a BRTS bus jumped the red signal. “Nobody pays heed to the red signal too,’’ said one.

Those crazy drivers also seem to be behind the wheel of BRTS buses as well. A PMC official stated the traffic-light timing problem would be sorted out in a few days (buses are supposed to have right-of-way and traffic lights are supposed to change as they approach). Will traffic wise up to restrictions on the bus lane, or will the lawless cars reign supreme over the infant transit system born too early?

Express News Service