While speed breakers have been installed to curb two-wheeler accidents on the main road in Aarey Milk Colony, under the jurisdiction of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the absence of proper markings on these traffic-calming devices is increasing the risk of mishaps. Earlier, mid-day had highlighted concerns regarding internal roads, where unmarked speed breakers, constructed by the public works department, had led to safety hazards.
When this reporter visited the spot, it was observed that 12 speed breakers had been installed on the main road between the Goregaon entry point and Picnic Point near Birsa Munda Chowk. Shockingly, at least eight of these devices, constructed within the past week, lack proper white markings, making it difficult for approaching two-wheeler riders and four-wheeler drivers to spot them.
Though cautionary signboards have been placed near some speed breakers on either side of the road, motorists often miss these indicators. Over 25,000 vehicles use the road, which links Goregaon’s Western Express Highway to Powai and Marol, daily. Locals have urged the police and forest department to increase patrolling and take strict action against speeding motorists.
Earlier, the Aarey main road had speed breakers and warning signage at accident-prone zones, but they were removed during road work. Tribal residents, wildlife activists, and nature lovers have also demanded speed restrictions, warning that reckless driving at night endangers both pedestrians and wildlife.
‘BMC at fault’
Locals alleged that the BMC installed the new speed breakers after complaints, but there were no markings on them. On February 25, mid-day reported on the lack of speed breakers, which had led to multiple accidents. The Aarey police had recommended speed breakers at 11 accident-prone spots, with Senior PI Ravindra Patil urging the authorities to install them at the earliest.
Voices of concern
Prasad Khandagale, resident and wildlife rescuer
‘It’s good to see that speed breakers have finally been installed on the main Aarey road after several accidents and fatalities. However, it is alarming that these lack proper white markings. This makes the breakers dangerous especially at night, as motorists may not notice them in time’
Wasim Athaniya, Aarey resident
‘Several animals, including spotted deer, leopards, and reptiles, cross this Aarey road. However, despite critical crossing points where wild animals frequently move between forest patches, there is not a single signboard indicating wildlife crossings. The need of the hour is to install such warning boards to ensure motorists slow down and drive with caution.’
