Just before the 7.7-km Igatpuri tunnel, Maharashtra’s longest road tunnel that bypasses the old Kasara Ghat section, motorists are seen halting their vehicles to pose for selfies
Motorists dangerously stop on the Samruddhi highway near the Igatpuri tunnel to take selfies. Pics/By Special Arrangement
While the Samruddhi Mahamarg has been opened for motorists, a section of the highway before the Igatpuri tunnel has turned into a selfie spot, our report, buttressed by pictures of this happening, stated. People are dangerously pulling over on the stretch to click pictures, greatly increasing the risk of accidents.
Just before the 7.7-km Igatpuri tunnel, Maharashtra’s longest road tunnel that bypasses the old Kasara Ghat section, motorists are seen halting their vehicles to pose for selfies. The situation is worsened by low visibility during monsoon fog, making the stretch even more accident-prone.
Our report added that a commuter who captured these scenes pointed out that the location is particularly dangerous as it has deep valleys on both sides, and people were seen clicking selfies dangerously close to the retaining wall. Stopping vehicles on the Samruddhi highway is strictly prohibited, and highway police have been penalising offenders. However, another commuter pointed out that he saw banners installed by MSRDC on the stretch asking motorists and truckers to park and visit small waterfalls nearby, creating mixed signals about stopping on the highway.
This is hugely disappointing, and authorities need to first check on these banners. This truly creates deadly confusion, on the one hand being asked not to stop, and on the other, being told to visit waterfalls. That is why one always stresses the importance of different agencies coming together to speak, design, plan and execute. This is akin to one hand not knowing what the other is doing.
Drivers cannot stop on the highway as it is an invitation to disaster. Remove conflicting posters, enhance surveillance and increase no-stopping signage. Selfies for satisfaction and a few likes are inane. We need attention and work on this problem at F1 speed.
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