Kaohsiung promotes 'inner shoulder + channeling line' to improve left-turn traffic jams

Kaohsiung City is introducing an innovative traffic marking system designed to alleviate congestion caused by vehicles waiting to turn left. The new "inner shoulder + channeling line" marking aims to improve traffic flow and enhance safety on busy urban roads.

The system involves widening the inner shoulder and incorporating channeling lines. This configuration effectively narrows the main travel lanes, prompting drivers to reduce their speed. Crucially, it creates a more ample waiting area for vehicles intending to turn left, preventing them from blocking through traffic and reducing the likelihood of direct-cut collisions by vehicles attempting to maneuver around them.

Several key road sections in Kaohsiung have been selected for the initial implementation and evaluation of this new marking system. These include parts of Jiuru 1st Road (east of Wolong Road), Guanghua 1st Road, Meishu East 2nd Road, and Bo'ai 1st Road. The city's transportation bureau will assess the effectiveness of these pilot projects before considering a broader rollout.

Officials emphasize that this "inner shoulder + channeling line" marking is particularly suitable for existing roads that have central medians but have not yet been modified to include dedicated left-turn lanes. This approach offers a more straightforward and cost-effective method for improving traffic management compared to extensive road reconstruction. The initiative reflects Kaohsiung's commitment to leveraging smart urban planning to address persistent traffic challenges.