People jumping signals, over-speeding in restricted zones and standing right on the zebra crossing — which is meant for pedestrians — are a common sight on the city’s street which raises questions about awareness of traffic rules and signs among people.
However, reasons for this bizarre behaviour can be unearthed by going back to the testing zone — which highlights the reality — that people are more interested in obtaining a licence and least about the signs meant for orderly traffic.
“Many don’t even recognise symbols like railway crossing or schools. It is sad to see that people rely on text books to learn even the most widely used signs. I don’t understand why they want license when they can’t even understand signals,” said Traffic DSP A K Mishra.
Interestingly, according to Traffic DSP, around 10 per cent people on an average fail to recognise any signs while rest recognise only half of the symbol during the test. The test — which is conducted in two parts — usually focuses on ascertaining knowledge of basic symbols besides the driving skills of the applicant.
Few people are seen holding sheets and carrying books to the test venue while others peep here and there to learn the symbols which points towards their casual attitude about the signs that are meant to infuse traffic sense among them. Weirdly, people believe that buying a book ensures success in the test.
“There are books in the market on traffic signs. I had to search entire market to get the book. Without any reference material it is difficult to clear the test,” said Ranjan Patel, a resident of Harmu Housing Colony.
Ironically people want license to drive on city’s road yet acquainting themselves with signage and traffic signals has taken a back seat. Despite availability of ready reference on traffic signs people fumble while answering basic questions about signs.
“I failed to clear the test on January 15. It’s tough to recognise signs. I bought a book to learn the signs however I am depending on my luck to clear the test today,” confessed David.
Incidentally, the test for obtaining a learners license is conducted jointly by Traffic police and office of the District Transport Officer (DTO). While the Traffic police test a candidate on his understanding of traffic signs the DTO tests the driving skills of an applicant. The tests are conducted on every Monday and Wednesday.