Traffic congestion at Edappally needs attention

KOCHI:  A proper management plan is the only solution to lighten the heavy traffic at  Edappally junction, a study conducted by the Centre for Public Policy Research has said. According to the research, unless a proper transport network system is formed, the ever increasing number of vehicles will only continue to congest the junction. Also, development of large supermarkets and  complexes in the area will pose threat to a smooth traffic inflow into the city.The research has pointed out that the U-turns  at the junction is the major problem faced by Edappally at the moment. And unless effective measures are taken, more U-turns will prop up in the future. Also, the heavy traffic will force authorities to set up more traffic signals in the junction which will only prove to be a nuisance for commuters, who mostly use the route to connect between Aluva and Ernakulam. In addition, the presence of two national highways NH 17 and NH 47 shows the importance of the junction at Edappally.What has to be considered is the setting up of flyovers which can prove to be one of best solutions to reduce traffic at Edappally. However, it has to be studied carefully and its repercussions should also be considered.Setting up of alternative parking centres and service roads can help in controlling traffic better. Introducing autorickshaws and busservices from upcoming malls like LULU, after it launches, to Vytilla Mobiility Hub can help people’s dependency on private transport, hence, lessening the traffic. Underground pathways, footpaths etc are other solutions.Edappally not only has one of the major hospitals in the state but is also the entry-point for vehicles from northern parts of Kerala. Also, soon to be opened Edappally RoB and Vallarpadam Container Transshipment Terminal need the junction to be developed as an extension of the Vytilla Mobililty Hub. Only then the situation can be improved, the study noted.