Kathmandu’s traffic problems and regular accidents on highways are a clear reflection of the country’s poor transport management. Kathmandu has morphed into a jam-friendly metro. It is almost impossible to reach one’s destination on time. This has led to a loss of time and scarce resources.

Undoubtedly, the political situation has a role in our dismal traffic record. But many suggestions can be followed to improve the situation. For example, U-turns are responsible for a chain of jams in and around the turning points. Hence, U-turns should be kept only at some designated points. Similarly, spots for stopping and parking vehicles should be fixed. No vehicle should be allowed to stop within five metres from the road intersection on both ends of the road.

Likewise, we could make more curbs, like the ones present in the road stretch between Babarmahal and Teenkune, where public vehicles might park. This was first introduced to allow public transport vehicles to stop without disturbing the traffic flow in main thoroughfares.

I wonder why this cannot be imitated in places of heavy jams. Jams near Rastriya Nachghar can be mitigated by introducing a lane system. This will allow the fast vehicles to surge ahead of the slower ones.

Both manually operated and engine-driven slow vehicles like tractors and thelas should be allowed only on selected roads and during the time of lean traffic. Similarly, information on traffic problems should be broadcast through FMs, road signs, signals etc.

Automatic traffic lights should be introduced at intersections. More footpaths and awareness campaigns to persuade the pedestrians to use them should be launched. Zebra crossing, under-ground crossing, and over-head bridges can also be employed. Narrow roads should be made one-way and the streets widened. But we might not as yet be prepared for flyovers.

Reward and punishment should be put in place for traffic police. Moreover, those applying for a driving licence should undergo training at designated institutions only. The government and the concerned public utility company should be made accountable to the public. Roadworthiness has to be strictly enforced. Automobile workshops which determine this should meet regulatory norms. If we can implement only some of these remedies, we will see a big improvement in the city’s transport management.

A number of benefits will accrue. More fuel would be saved. This, in turn, will reduce the country’s expenses in petro-products. But most importantly, precious lives will be saved. Depreciation of vehicles will slow down. But no matter how good a system on paper, it will be useless if it’s not implemented effectively. Action should speak louder than words. Our capital, indeed the whole country, can be made beautiful if the authorities concerned deliver on their promises. For this to happen, the authorities should be capable of tackling problems, small or big, thereby ensuring the delivery of quality services.