Delhi Assembly Speaker Appeals for Audible Traffic Signals for Inclusivity
Synopsis
In a significant move towards urban inclusivity, Delhi Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta has urged the Lieutenant Governor to install audible signals at traffic lights, aiming to enhance safety for Divyangjan and senior citizens in the capital. This initiative is expected to reduce accidents and foster a more accessible environment.
Key Takeaways
Proposal for audible signals at traffic lights in Delhi.
Aimed at enhancing safety for Divyangjan and seniors.
Approximately 60 lakh people in Delhi have vision impairments.
Successful models exist in various countries worldwide.
Installation is vital for human dignity and safety.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) - Speaker of the Delhi Legislative Assembly, Vijender Gupta, has reached out to Lieutenant Governor Taranjit Singh Sandhu with a request to explore a proposal for the installation of audible signals at traffic lights throughout the capital. This initiative aims to enhance the safety of Divyangjan and elderly citizens, as indicated by an official statement released on Tuesday.
Gupta believes that implementing such features would be a significant stride towards creating a more inclusive urban infrastructure in Delhi.
“These enhancements could greatly decrease road accidents and help Delhi evolve into a genuinely inclusive smart city that serves all its inhabitants, irrespective of their physical capabilities,” he remarked.
Referencing concerning statistics from the Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences at AIIMS, Gupta pointed out that approximately 60 lakh individuals in Delhi endure various vision impairments.
With estimates suggesting that between 12 to 18 lakh people have significant low vision—many of whom are elderly—the Speaker highlighted the inadequacies of the present traffic systems for those who cannot depend on visual signals to navigate busy intersections.
The letter emphasized that the absence of accessible crossing aids poses a continual danger of accidents and restricts the mobility of a considerable portion of the population, according to official remarks.
Gupta pointed to successful models from around the globe where sound-based indicators, such as beeps or ticking sounds, have become standard at crossings.
Countries like Japan, the UK, the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore, France, Sweden, Brazil, and Australia have successfully incorporated these systems, enhancing pedestrian movement.
He particularly noted the implementation of “melodic” or bird-like tones in Japan, which assist pedestrians in easily identifying when it is safe to cross, thereby fostering a more empathetic and user-friendly urban landscape.
Gupta stressed that the introduction of audible signals at major traffic junctions is not merely a technical enhancement but a vital requirement for human dignity and safety.
He urged the Lieutenant Governor to review the proposal and prioritize its implementation to transform Delhi's roadways into a safer environment for all citizens.
Point of View
This initiative could significantly enhance pedestrian safety and mobility in the capital.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are audible signals and why are they important?
Audible signals are sound-based cues at traffic lights that help visually impaired individuals and seniors navigate intersections safely. They are crucial for enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Which areas in Delhi are being targeted for this proposal?
The proposal aims to install audible signals at major traffic intersections throughout the national capital.
How many people in Delhi are affected by vision impairments?
Approximately 60 lakh people in Delhi suffer from various vision impairments, with 12 to 18 lakh individuals experiencing significant low vision.
What countries have successfully implemented similar systems?
Countries like Japan, the UK, the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore, France, Sweden, Brazil, and Australia have successfully integrated audible signals for pedestrian safety.
What is the expected outcome of implementing audible signals?
The implementation of audible signals is expected to reduce road accidents and enhance mobility for Divyangjan and senior citizens, contributing to a more inclusive urban environment.
