Figure shows the plan of a one-way road passing next to a primary school. Which of the options can be the location(s) to set up a bus stop for the school bus in Indian context?
Show Hint
For questions involving traffic safety and planning, consider secondary effects like traffic congestion and the intended use of safety infrastructure (like zebra crossings), not just the most direct path for the pedestrian.
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the most suitable location for a school bus stop from four given options, keeping in mind traffic rules, safety of children, and practical considerations in the Indian context.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
We must evaluate each location based on the following criteria:
1. Child Safety: Minimizing the need for children to cross the road or walk in traffic. The location should not create blind spots for other drivers.
2. Traffic Flow: The bus stop should cause minimal disruption to the flow of traffic on the one-way road.
3. Use of Infrastructure: The location should encourage the use of existing safety features like the zebra crossing.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the given options based on the diagram:
The road is one-way, with traffic flowing from left to right.
The school is on the upper side of the road, and a playground is on the lower side.
A zebra crossing is provided for pedestrians.
Evaluation of Locations: Location A: This is on the same side as the school but \textit{before} the zebra crossing. A bus stopping here would block the view of the zebra crossing for drivers approaching from behind, creating a dangerous situation for children crossing. This is not an ideal location. Location B: This is on the same side as the school and \textit{after} the zebra crossing. This is a relatively safe option as children can get off the bus and directly enter the school without crossing the road. However, placing a bus stop very close to the school gate can lead to congestion of both people and vehicles at the entrance. Location C: This is on the opposite side of the road (playground side) and \textit{before} the zebra crossing. This requires children to cross the road to get to school. A bus stopping here would also obscure the view of the zebra crossing. This is an unsafe option. Location D: This is on the opposite side of the road and \textit{after} the zebra crossing. This location requires children to cross the road. However, it has some specific advantages from a traffic management perspective:
Visibility: The bus stops after the zebra crossing, so it does not obstruct the view of the crossing for other drivers.
Regulated Crossing: It compels all children to walk back to the designated zebra crossing to cross the road. This channels pedestrian traffic to a single, safe point which can be monitored (e.g., by a traffic warden).
Reduced Congestion: It prevents the formation of a crowd and traffic jam directly in front of the school gate.
In urban planning, especially in a context where disciplined use of crossings is encouraged for safety, this option is often considered. It prioritizes organized pedestrian movement over the convenience of a same-side drop-off.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Considering the benefits of ensuring the zebra crossing is used and preventing congestion at the school gate, location D is the most plausible answer in a planned traffic context.
