Pedestrians and vehicle drivers saw an almost different city yesterday with many police monitoring zebra crossings and distributing pamphlets on safety rules for pedestrians. Multiple new zebra crossings have also been painted throughout the city recently.
The programme that started since the early morning rush hour was aimed at educating both pedestrians and drivers on the use of zebra crossings.
According to Royal Bhutan Police, the rules on zebra crossings were hardly being followed so far. The rule would be made more stringent through fines and penalties for both pedestrians and drivers.
Drivers would be levied Nu 750 and pedestrians Nu 550 for violating the rule.
Most pedestrians seem to welcome the move although few vehicle drivers also shared their own reservations. A pedestrian said, today some vehicles stopped in front of zebra crossings while some didn’t. He added the new rule would make it easier for pedestrians now.
A driver said, it was easier to stop and give way to pedestrians, but sometimes when they drive faster, pedestrians cross roads suddenly and it becomes difficult. Many pedestrians also do not always use zebra crossings to cross roads.
There are 59 zebra crossings in the country today and more would be painted.
According to police, 16 accident cases involving pedestrians were reported this year. The awareness programme will be carried out for a week.
