Bikers say unmarked bumps at Pratiksha Nagar, on Sewri-Chembur Road pose threat to life and limb
Speed breakers in need of a paint job at Pratiksha Nagar in Sion East. Pics/Atul Kamble
As part of mid-day’s ongoing efforts to shine the spotlight on unmarked speed breakers across the city, this reporter visited Pratiksha Nagar and Anik depot on the Sewri-Chembur Road, where several speed bumps were found lacking proper markings, on December 4. In Andheri West, near the Regional Transport Office, more such traffic calming devices could be seen.
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On the Sewri-Chembur Road, faded speed breakers could be seen on the east as well as westbound carriageway near Anik depot.
The Sewri-Chembur Road where one sees several multi-axle vehicles
Thousands of four-wheelers and multi-axle vehicles use this stretch daily as well as autorickshaws and two-wheelers. As the road is wide, the vehicles drive at extremely high speeds and as the speed breakers can’t be seen clearly, two-wheeler riders and motorists have to hit emergency brakes shortly before approaching them, increasing chances of accidents.
“There are a few speed breakers with faded markings near the Anik depot. If a rider loses their balance and falls after bringing their two-wheeler to a sudden halt, chances of cars and trucks running them over are high. I have seen traffic police officers fining people for not wearing helmets or seat belts. I hope they inform the authorities concerned that it is not enough to create speed breakers but also to also paint them regularly and install reflectors,” said Shoaib Shaikh, a biker. At Pratiksha Nagar in Sion East, several speed breakers lacked signs or clear markings. On Pratiksha Nagar Depot Road, speed bumps in at least spots could not be easily detected.