Dual responsibility in road safety

While the authorities could improve some facilities, the community itself needs to approach these in the correct spirit.

Unlike many other cities, Abu Dhabi is slow and steady when it comes to implementing modern trends and changes. However, in recent times, it has witnessed a great deal of development.

With all the comfort of its residents in mind, the authorities are striving to ensure a smooth flow of traffic, in tandem with the ongoing roadworks.

Public buses and the establishment of numerous pedestrian bridges at various points around the city are significant additions. However, how many of us use these facilities in the right spirit? It is a question I often ask.

Recently, I saw many pedestrians crossing at a traffic signal in front of the busy Abu Dhabi Mall.

It was shocking to see that they did this despite the fact that vehicles were speeding through the green traffic light.

I was even more appalled to see that they ran across the road, even though there was a pedestrian bridge just a few metres away. Are we not bothered about our own safety and not worried about the loving family members who wait for us at home?

Many elderly people, women and children complain that they find it difficult to climb up to the pedestrian bridges.

But how difficult would it be for them to wait a few minutes for the traffic signal to change?

Rules and measures initiated by the authorities cannot reduce accidents and provide a healthy environment on their own. A sense of self-involvement is required from residents and the public should play a keen and active role in helping make programmes successful.

I feel pedestrian crossings provide residents with an opportunity to enjoy a different view of the city For all the elderly people among us and for those citizens who have difficulty walking, providing an alternative in the form of a simple platform equipped with a handrail would be definitely a very welcome move. The reader is an Abu Dhabi-based technical planning and project manager.