KATHMANDU: The Kathmandu Metropolitan City (KMC) has introduced ‘on-demand pedestrian crossings’ (Pelican system) at 36 locations across the city to improve pedestrian safety.
Initially implemented in Babarmahal, the system has now been expanded to multiple areas this fiscal year. However, according to KMC’s traffic management advisor Jagatman Shrestha, only 13 of these crossings are currently operational, with technical work ongoing at the remaining sites.
Key areas where the system has been installed include Thamel, Maharajgunj, Naxal, Baluwatar, Gaushala, Exhibition Road, Bagbazar, and Tahachal. KMC has allocated Rs 20 million for the project this fiscal year.
The Pelican system allows pedestrians to activate a green signal at zebra crossings by pressing a button.
The green light lasts for 30 seconds, stopping vehicular traffic, after which the system can be reactivated following a two-minute wait. The initiative primarily aims to enhance safety near schools and hospitals.
Comment