Hyderabad's Traffic Conundrum: Unravelling the U-turn Mystery

Traffic & Road Safety

Posted by AI on 2026-01-04 06:30:16 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 08:44:16

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Hyderabad's bustling roads are witnessing a peculiar chaos, where drivers seem to be at odds with the very signs meant to guide them. A recent spotlight on traffic signage reveals a startling trend of violations and confusion, with U-turn rules taking centre stage. According. to road safety activist Lokendra Singh, the city's traffic woes are deeply intertwined with a lack of understanding of the different categories of signs.

The Indian traffic sign system, with its myriad symbols and colours, is designed to ensure safety and smooth flow. However, the crux of the issue lies in the three distinct types of signs: mandatory, cautionary, and informatory. Mandatory signs, with their circular shapes and red or blue backgrounds, demand strict adherence, yet many commuters remain oblivious to their significance. Cautionary signs, warning of potential dangers, are often treated with indifference, while informatory signs, meant to guide, are sometimes overused by authorities.

Singh sheds light on the specific challenges of U-turns, a common source of confusion. He explains that drivers must navigate mandatory U-turns, prohibited zones, and conditional turns indicated by various signs. For instance, a blue circular sign with a white curved arrow mandates a U-turn, while a red circular sign with a crossed arrow forbids it. Conditional U-turns, often indicated by informatory boards, require drivers to be vigilant and aware of designated lanes and signal timings.

To address this growing concern, Singh advocates for a multi-pronged approach. He believes that public education is paramount, ensuring drivers understand the language of traffic signs. Additionally, authorities should focus on strategic sign placement and consistent enforcement to reduce ambiguity. As Hyderabad's traffic situation evolves, the solution lies in a collective effort to decipher the road's visual cues, transforming confusion into clarity.

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