Kim Hyungmi, a member of the Gwangju Seo-gu Council, emphasized the need to introduce diagonal crosswalks to improve pedestrian safety and traffic convenience during a five-minute speech at the 1st plenary session of the 2nd regular session of the 336th meeting on November 25.
Councilor Kim cited the example of Seoul, highlighting the clear effects observed after the introduction of diagonal crosswalks: an 18.4% reduction in traffic accidents, a 27.3% decrease in vehicle-to-pedestrian accidents, and a 25.8% drop in accidents occurring while crossing.
She went on to propose the development of a Seo-gu-style pedestrian safety model, which would include conducting feasibility studies for introducing diagonal crosswalks at major intersections, establishing a cooperative system between the city and district governments, and comprehensively reorganizing the overall traffic environment to guarantee mobility rights for vulnerable pedestrians.
Councilor Kim Hyungmi referred to the diagonal crosswalk project that was promoted in Hwajeong 2-dong in 2023, noting that at the time, there were difficulties in advancing the project due to a lack of understanding and consensus regarding diagonal crosswalks.
She added, "Now, based on clear effect analysis and successful case studies, this is the greatest opportunity to resolve pedestrian inconvenience and enhance safety in Seo-gu," and stated that she would personally take the lead in promoting the initiative.
Finally, she called for active administrative review and implementation to create a 'Safe Seo-gu' where people come first and pedestrians are the priority.
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
