Four More Streets in Yerevan Have Activated 'Pedestrian Call' Traffic Lights

In order to ensure safe traffic in the capital, in 2019, the Yerevan Municipality implemented several programs. One of them was the installation of traffic lights operating in 'pedestrian call' mode at crosswalks, reports the Yerevan Municipality.

“Emphasizing the organization of traffic safety in Yerevan, by the mayor's directive, five 'pedestrian call' traffic light installations were set up at the end of last year. The work continued this year, and now we are witnessing the launch of four new traffic light installations,” said Edgar Galstyan, the deputy head of the Transport Department of the Yerevan Municipality.

The scope of the program significantly increased in 2020. This year, 37 pedestrian crossings will be controlled by traffic signals activated by pedestrians.

“In the coming days, five more will be activated, while two are in progress. In other words, we will have a total of 11 new traffic light installations that will make pedestrian movement safe in those areas. Overall, projects for 26 traffic lights are in the final stages, which we also plan to install by the end of the year,” stated Edgar Galstyan.

Additionally, the design work for similar traffic lights planned for 2021 is already underway. Next year, another 37 'pedestrian call' traffic lights will be installed.

To implement the program, problematic points in the capital have been registered jointly with the Traffic Police. The list also includes areas adjacent to schools, kindergartens, other educational institutions, and cultural centers.

The next step aimed at ensuring safe traffic is to enhance night lighting on bridges and overpasses. Energy-saving LED lights will be installed in these areas, providing brighter illumination.

According to the Law on Local Self-Governance in Yerevan, traffic regulation, including the installation of traffic lights and road markings, falls under the powers delegated to the mayor. However, since 2009, these functions have been delegated to the Traffic Police by a government decision. Accordingly, the budget is allocated to the Traffic Police as well. However, given the importance of ensuring safe traffic in the capital, by the mayor's directive, the community is implementing various programs together with the Traffic Police in a cooperative manner.