Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 23 2009:
After the unsuccessful initiative to control traffic in Imphal city by using electronic signals some ten years back, the State Government is planning to re-install signal system to control traffic in the State capital.
MAHUD Department submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Urban Development for installation of traffic signal systems at 17 traffic points in and around Imphal city, informed an official source.
The 17 points identified for installation of signal system are Keishampat junction, Kwakeithel, Khoyathong junction, North AOC, Khongnang Ani Karak, Lamlong, Pureilomba Khongnangkhong, Chingamakhong, Nityaipat Chuthek, Chief Minister's Bungalow crossing, western gate of Kangla, MG Avenue junction, Thangal Bazar Babuthong, Kongba bridge, New Checkon crossing and Porompat police crossing.
The proposal for installation of signal system at these 17 points has been already approved by the Government of India and subsequently Rs 193.95 lakhs were sanctioned in February 2005 .
Of the sanctioned amount, Rs 96.88 lakhs were released as one-time payment.
As per an agreement made earlier, MAHUD Department deposited Rs 96.88 lakhs at NBCC which has been entrusted with the traffic signal installation work.
However, NBCC withdrew from the agreement later.
Subsequently, the amount deposited at NBCC was withdrawn and transferred to State account in July last year.
Till date, the amount remain unutilised, conveyed the source.
In a latest arrangement, it has been agreed that traffic signal installation work will be handed over to State PWD.
Further, even as 17 points have been already identified, PWD has been directed to identify the points where the signal system would be necessary.
Once the points are identified, the amount of Rs 96.88 lakhs would be deposited in PWD account.
As estimate of the project made in 2005 would not be compatible with the current costs, a revised estimate will be made.
It has also been agreed that any increment in the previous estimate of Rs 193.95 lakhs will be accounted to the State Plan amount.
Taking note of the shortage of power in the State, it has been arranged to embed solar system batteries which can run for two days without electricity, added the source.