BLITAR – Faded road markings in Blitar have sparked growing safety concerns, as worn-out lane lines and zebra crossings become increasingly difficult for motorists and pedestrians to see.
Across several major roads, white lane markings have begun to fade significantly. In many areas, they have nearly disappeared, especially at busy intersections where clear guidance is critical.
Field observations highlight key trouble spots, including the junction near Shodanco Supriyadi Street and the four-way intersection at Veteran Street. Not only lane dividers but also pedestrian crossings have lost visibility, raising risks for those crossing the road.
Azis, a motorcyclist, said unclear markings make intersections more dangerous.
“As a rider, you rely on markings to know where to stop. If they’re this faded, it becomes unsafe, especially if pedestrians cross and you can’t see the lines,” he said.
Similarly, cyclists have voiced concerns about fading bike lane markings. Fatimah, a student who cycles to school daily, pointed to sections along Shodanco Supriyadi Street where dedicated lanes have become barely visible.
“Cyclists usually stay to the left, but if the government has provided special lanes, they should maintain them. Otherwise, it looks neglected,” she said.
As a result, cyclists now worry about potential conflicts with motor vehicles, particularly when lane boundaries are no longer clearly defined.
In response, Agus Widianto, head of road safety at Blitar’s Transportation Agency, acknowledged the issue. However, he confirmed that the city has yet to schedule repainting work.
According to Agus, budget limitations remain the main obstacle.
“There are no repainting plans yet due to limited funding,” he said.
The agency carried out routine maintenance, including repainting road markings on TGP Street last year. Nevertheless, many other roads now require similar attention to ensure public safety.
Overall, the situation highlights the urgent need for infrastructure maintenance in Blitar, as clear road markings play a crucial role in preventing accidents and protecting all road users.