Pedestrian-activated traffic light installed in front of Padmakanya Campus
The new system, known as “Pelican Crossing,” was implemented on Wednesday to enhance pedestrian safety.
KATHMANDU: Kathmandu Metropolitan City has introduced a pedestrian-activated traffic light system in front of Padmakanya Multiple Campus, Baghbazar.
The new system, known as “Pelican Crossing,” was implemented on Wednesday to enhance pedestrian safety.
According to Kathmandu Metropolitan City’s traffic expert advisor, Jagatman Shrestha, the metropolis has installed Pelican crossings at 36 locations so far.
Shrestha stated that the concept was introduced to reduce road accidents and ensure pedestrian safety. With this system, pedestrians can press a button to activate the traffic light, temporarily stopping vehicles and allowing them to cross safely.
He also mentioned that similar systems will be introduced in other areas for improved traffic control.
“This is called a button crossing. It remains inactive until someone presses the button. Once activated, it functions for a designated time, stopping vehicles and allowing pedestrians to cross safely. Previously, random crossings were unsafe. Now, with 36 such crossings installed, pedestrians can cross with confidence,” he explained.
Local residents have welcomed the initiative, calling it an exemplary step toward road safety.
Sandhya Basnet, a student at Padmakanya Multiple Campus, expressed her appreciation, saying the system would help reduce frequent accidents in the area.
“This traffic light and button system is a great initiative for road safety. Earlier, crossing the road was risky. This installation at the right place and time is highly commendable,” she said.
Dr. Bhagwati Sedhain, Head of the Population Studies Department at Padmakanya Campus, emphasized the importance of the system in preventing road fatalities.
She praised Kathmandu Metropolitan City for implementing a top-tier safety standard and suggested that the timing for pedestrian crossing could be reviewed after some practical observation.
Kathmandu Metropolitan City is currently working on installing more Pelican lights under its road improvement project.
