The Ministry of Public Works has mobilised engineers to repair the traffic lights at the intersection of UG Road and the Rupert Craig Highway.
Over the weekend the intersection experienced a power surge that damaged the controller, cabinet and some components of the traffic signal. An engineer told Stabroek News that this was the first of its kind where the lights had suffered internal damage of this nature.
A new cabinet was mobilized to be installed and works to have it rectified will commence today. The ministry is currently sourcing parts for the traffic lights and the new components will undergo testing before being installed permanently. The replacement works are expected to last for two days.
Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Singh, said that the police have taken proactive measures to address the chaotic conditions at the UG Road intersection. Recognising the challenges faced by commuters, Singh deployed traffic ranks to the location to assist in managing the flow of vehicles and helping drivers navigate the junction more effectively. The Traffic Chief also contacted the ministry about the traffic lights not working.
Singh acknowledged the intersection’s difficulties, disclosing that he too, experiences the frustration of long traffic lines as he uses the Rupert Craig Highway daily. He noted that the situation is not only inconvenient but also affects overall road safety and efficiency for all road users. The GPF will be actively involved in managing the traffic until the lights are repaired, he said.
Notwithstanding Singh’s remarks there have been long periods over recent days when the police have not been present at the junction and this has led to chaos and dangerous situations for drivers and pedestrians.
