Completed Crossing
The opening of the underground pedestrian crossing on Aitmatov Avenue between Akhunbaev Street and A. Masaliev Avenue took place in early October, when its construction began in mid-month.To implement the project, it was necessary in some cases to use private lands that previously belonged to citizens.
However, the very decision to build underground crossings raises doubts. Research conducted by Peshkom and the Institute for Transport Policy and Development (ITDP) shows that even with the presence of underground and overground crossings, traffic accidents involving pedestrians continue.
According to experts from Peshkom, "on routes with underground and overground crossings, drivers do not expect to see pedestrians on the road, yet pedestrians often choose the shortest and most convenient path to cross."
This solution creates only a "false sense of security." ITDP experts believe that the best alternative is safety islands and traffic lights. There is also an open question about how authorities will maintain these underground crossings after their opening.
