DUBLIN motorists, reeling from the effects of Operation Freeflow over the past five weeks, are now facing what the authorities describe as Freeflow 2. More of the same and even worse, as the clampdown on motorists breaching regulations is to be widened.
Operation Freeflow - the first major integration of activity to address traffic congestion in Dublin - has been a great success, ensuring a "real improvement" in Dublin's traffic during the past five weeks, the Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, said yesterday.
Announcing the introduction of Operation Freeflow 2, Mr Bruton said this would continue the success of the Christmas period programme. The main element of the new programme would be an extension of Garda enforcement to include all key routes and junctions in the Dublin area, especially in urban villages; control of road space activity; and public transport measures such as quality bus corridors. The important new post of Director of Traffic with Dublin Corporation would be advertised next week.
The Taoiseach, who was visiting the Traffic Control Centre in the Civic Offices in Dublin, said he was determined the management of Dublin's traffic would take place in a planned way. Major projects, like Luas, the C Ring road and the port tunnel, we're not answers to the city's problems on their own. Piecemeal development would not solve the challenge and would antagonise those who would benefit most from a successful transportation system.
Schdol trips, he said, contributed to congestion and added up to 10 per cent to peak hour traffic volumes. He would like school managements, parents and pupils to examine how they could help ease congestion.
Huge economic success had resulted in 43,500 new cars being registered in Dublin city and county last year, an increase of 15 per cent on 1995 and nearly 10,000 more cars than just five years ago.
It was important to make the best use of roads, rail and bus facilities. Before embarking on more expensive projects, the authorities had to satisfy themselves they we're making the best use of what was already provided.
Referring to the success of Operation, Freeflow, the Taoiseach said that aside from the fines and prosecutions, two positive things were noteworthy. "Firstly, the way motorists readily adapted their behaviour in the second week when traffic violations dropped by a dramatic 35 per cent, thus improving traffic conditions for everyone. Secondly, the improved bus journey times enjoyed by Dublin Bus and the consequent increased growth in revenue from bus fares."