Caution urged at Carifesta, Vlissingen intersection

By Staff Editor On In Photos |
An overhead view of the intersection showing the convergence of traffic. This DPI photo shows a policeman at the intersection though there is usually no police presence there.
An overhead view of the intersection showing the convergence of traffic. This DPI photo shows a policeman at the intersection though there is usually no police presence there.

Coordinator for the Ministry of Public Infrastructure’s Works Services Group, Geoffrey Vaughn has described as baseless, claims that non-functioning traffic lights make key intersections hazardous for drivers.

An overhead view of the intersection showing the convergence of traffic. This DPI photo shows a policeman at the intersection though there is usually no police presence there.

In a Department of Public Information press release, Vaughn was responding to a report in yesterday’s Stabroek News that the lack of functioning traffic lights has made it increasingly difficult to use the Vlissingen Road/Carifesta Avenue intersection in the city.

The report also stated that since the junction was reopened for traffic after infrastructural works, the traffic lights have not been functioning.

Speaking with DPI, Vaughn reminded that preliminary work for the construction of a roundabout at the Vlissingen and Carifesta Avenue junction was being executed at the time. The coordinator also noted citizens should always be cautious when proceeding along the junction.

“Roundabouts don’t usually have traffic lights, but persons need to practice using the area with caution, if they don’t, then it will give you an idea of how people would utilise the roundabout when it is completed.”

While the Ministry of Public Infrastructure will consider engaging the relevant authorities to have the traffic lights functioning, Vaughn said his office will also recommence its campaign to sensitise road users on the ‘dos and don’t’s’ of manoeuvring the roundabout.

Vaughn said “currently the area is like a roundabout, so the Ministry has to start an early campaign so that persons can use the area safely. Some of the things that people need to be aware of are; persons who enter the intersection should move first. Also, the person who wishes to make a right turn, should approach the roundabout in the right lane, then signal right as you approach the roundabout and continue to signal right until you’re ready to exit. Then, signal left before you exit the roundabout. These are things we want people to know.”

Despite Vaughn’s statement, it is clear that commuters are unsure of how to navigate the Carifesta/Vlissingen intersection and at peak traffic periods there is a free for all. It is unclear why the roundabout work has not started as yet.