Kolkata flyover paint risks skidding
IIT expert warns rainbow-painted flyover could cause skidding for motorcyclists.
In brief
IIT expert warns rainbow-painted flyover could cause skidding for motorcyclists. IIT-Kharagpur expert Bhargab Maitra says Chingrighata flyover's aged asphalt and paint layers reduce friction, risking motorcycle skids. Originally reported by mint.
Chingrighata flyover safety concerns
Kolkata's rainbow-painted Chingrighata flyover faces road-safety risks due to reduced surface friction.
“According to the expert, motorcycles are more vulnerable to reduced surface friction because they have lower stability and a smaller tyre contact area.”
IIT expert identifies risks
IIT-Kharagpur expert Bhargab Maitra says aged mastic asphalt and paint layers reduce friction for motorcyclists.
“Maitra reportedly said the ageing mastic asphalt layer had lost its effectiveness in providing the frictional resistance required for safe vehicle movement.”
Why motorcycles are vulnerable
Motorcycles have lower stability and smaller tyre contact area, making them more prone to skidding on slippery surfaces.
“According to the expert, motorcycles are more vulnerable to reduced surface friction because they have lower stability and a smaller tyre contact area.”
Rain risk increases skidding
Wet conditions during drizzle could further compromise motorcycle traction on the flyover.
“The risk could increase during drizzle, when wet road conditions may further compromise tyre traction.”
Authorities take action
West Bengal government installed cat's-eye studs and roughened Gariahat Bridge to improve friction.
“Following the reported incidents, the West Bengal government installed rows of cat's-eye road studs at intervals of 10 metres on the rainbow-painted stretch of Chingrighata flyover.”
Prohibition during rain
Kolkata Police Commissioner banned two-wheelers on the flyover during rain as a precaution.
“Kolkata Police Commissioner Ajay Kumar Nanda said two-wheeler movement on the Chingrighata flyover would be prohibited during rain as a precautionary measure.”
The bottom line
IIT-Kharagpur expert Bhargab Maitra says Chingrighata flyover's aged asphalt and paint layers reduce friction, risking motorcycle skids.
