COIMBATORE: ESSO Bunk and Pioneer Mill junctions on the Avinashi Road have reverted to the U-turn system as trial traffic signals installed in both places led to heavy congestion. Following petitions from residents and the public about having to travel nearly one kilometre to take a U-turn, and in an effort to ensure smoother traffic flow on the busy city road, the city police operated two traffic signals at the ESSO Bunk and Pioneer Mills junctions from June 13 to 17. However, the signals resulted in traffic stagnation. Commuters were forced to wait longer to cross the junctions, causing vehicles to queue up, especially during peak hours.Coimbatore city police commissioner N Kannan said the police were working to improve traffic flow and reduce road accidents. He said an analysis of traffic patterns on Avinashi Road showed that the U-turn system worked better than signals. “Based on public requests, the signals were removed, and the U-turn system will continue,” he said. “A permanent solution is being worked on. Until then, the U-turn system will remain in place,” he added.
