Mumbai: After the successful installation of spike speed breakers in Colaba, former BJP Corporator Advocate Makarand Narwekar has called for their wider implementation across Mumbai. In a letter to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and Joint Commissioner of Traffic Anil Kumbhare, Narwekar emphasized the urgent need to install more spike speed breakers, particularly on busy one-way roads, to prevent accidents and ensure pedestrian safety.
Narwekar highlighted the positive impact these spikes have had in Colaba, where complaints of wrong-way driving have significantly reduced since their installation. Initially introduced on B G Kher Marg in Malabar Hill, these spikes were later implemented on three key roads in Colaba: SBS Road, Nathalal Parekh Road, and Colaba Cross Lane.
“The success we’ve seen in Colaba encourages us to demand the installation of similar spikes on eight more roads in the area,” Narwekar said. He urged the BMC and Mumbai Traffic Police to conduct a city-wide survey to identify other locations where spike speed breakers could be beneficial.
Narwekar suggested that while the spikes should be sharp enough to deter wrong-side driving by puncturing tires, they should not be so sharp as to cause excessive damage to vehicles or endanger motorists. This balance, he believes, is crucial in promoting lane discipline without causing undue harm.
Residents of Colaba, like Bella Shah, have also voiced their support for the spikes. “We initially tried using signages to control the problem, but they were largely ignored by motorists. The spike speed breakers have been far more effective, especially on roads with heavy pedestrian traffic and those frequented by school children and senior citizens,” Shah commented.
As Mumbai continues to grapple with traffic discipline issues, the demand for more spike speed breakers reflects growing concern among residents and local representatives about road safety.