In an effort to improve pedestrian safety in the early morning and evening hours, Thrissur Corporation has launched a drive to distribute reflective safety belts.
Mayor Niji Justin launched the initiative by distributing bands at a function held in front of the Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple in the city on Wednesday. The event was presided over by Standing Committee on Town Planning Karoli Joshwa.
The initiative aims to reduce traffic accidents at dawn and dusk, when pedestrians are often not easily visible to motorists due to poor light conditions.
The reflective strips will shine brightly when a vehicle’s headlights hit them, allowing drivers to spot pedestrians from a distance, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents.
The project is implemented with the support of ESAF Bank. The proposal was initially submitted by Sebastian Joseph, president of the Maitri Residence Association in Evannur, and was later taken up by the society.
Around 100 reflective tapes were deployed during the first phase. Lanes will be provided mainly to early morning walkers, members of walking clubs, newspaper deliverers, workers in busy markets and people moving around places of worship. The need for such safety measures has drawn attention following several fatal road accidents involving pedestrians during morning walks, including the death of former Assembly Speaker and former MP Varkala Radhakrishnan in a road accident.
Published – 11 March 2026 20:54 IST
