31-05-2025
Busy Cuttack square scores ‘0' in pedestrian safety audit
Cuttack: Khannagar Square, one of the city's busiest intersections, has received a '0-star' pedestrian safety rating in a recent traffic audit, raising serious concerns among residents.
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The audit, conducted by the Forum for Prevention of Road Accidents (FPRA) under the International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) Star Rating Mobility Snapshot, revealed that the junction failed to meet even basic safety parameters. The audit report was submitted to Cuttack Municipal Corporation and the DCP last week.
"Khannagar Square has become a death trap for pedestrians," said Bikash Mohapatra, adviser of FPRA and road safety expert.
"It's alarming that authorities have allowed vehicle movement without basic safety measures like zebra crossings, signage, pedestrian signals and traffic lights."
The square, situated along the Kathajodi river, serves as a crucial connection point between Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal (CNBT), Badambadi market and Rajabagicha. Daily traffic includes over 10,000 buses and 25,000 other vehicles.
Former ACP (traffic), Krushna Samal, emphasised the need for immediate intervention.
"Authorities must reduce speed limits to 40 kmph, install speed bumps and rumble strips, and ensure strict enforcement of traffic rules," he said.
Urban planner Ananya Rath highlighted the absence of basic infrastructure. "There are no proper street lights or signage. People are forced to dodge vehicles in pitch darkness," she said.
Locals expressed frustration over the situation. "It's a life threat every time we try to cross the road," said Suraj Sahoo, a Rajabagicha resident.
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Responding to concerns, Cuttack mayor Subhash Singh told TOI, "We will hold a meeting over the issue. Safety of pedestrians is non-negotiable, and we will soon initiate steps to improve lighting, signage, zebra crossings and overall infrastructure at Khannagar Square."
