VicRoads And Police To Crack Down On Congestion In Melbourne CBD

CONGESTION AND ROAD trauma in Melbourne's CBD will be a major focus for VicRoads and Victoria Police this month, Roads Minister Tim Pallas announced today.

Mr Pallas said that a targeted road safety blitz would be aimed at easing congestion and delivering safer pedestrian and cyclist travel in the city, which he said had become one of the top road trauma areas in the state.

“Melbourne’s CBD is a serious road trauma area. Last year there was a 3.5 per cent increase in pedestrian collisions, an 11.7 per cent increase in cyclist collisions and 192 motorbike collisions,” Mr Pallas said.

Targeted offences will include failing to give way to pedestrians and public transport, driving in bus, tram or bicycle lanes, stopping in clearways and 'Keep Clear' areas and failing to obey traffic signals.

“Importantly, improving traffic flow through the CBD will also reduce delays in public transport. Reducing congestion will make a significant difference to the journeys of thousands of road users in cars, trams, buses and on bikes,” Mr Pallas said.

VicRoads will also be on the lookout for vehicles blocking intersections and public transport, as well as double-parking. 

The blitz forms part of the Victorian Government's $112.7 million Keeping Melbourne Moving congestion plan.