With part of the first Delhi Bus Rapid Transit System (DBRTS) corridor, formerly known as the HCBS corridor, between Ambedkar Nagar and Delhi Gate expected to be functional by April 1, Delhiites will have their first brush with a world-class colour code for road markings.

“The corridor essentially functions on the concept of designated lanes for different modes of transport. Each lane will be coloured in the initial stretch to drive home the message,” said a senior official from RITES, which is constructing the corridor along with the Department of Transport Research and Injury Prevention Programme (TRIPP) in IIT Delhi.

According to the tentative colour scheme, the lanes for cyclists will be highlighted in bright green and the bus lane that runs along the central verge will be blue.

With lane driving still an alien concept in India, officials have decided to import these paints from the UK. “Since we have never used highlighting on our roads, there are no proper manufacturers of paint for the purpose,” he said. “We have shortlisted a few firms in the UK which have dealers in India. But since the coloured paint has specifications, we will have to import it.”

Unlike plastic paints, used mainly to demarcate bus lanes and mark zebra crossings, the paints used for marking roads contain additives like glass beads that reflect light at night. “These are low maintenance, reflective and water proof. The normal paints wear off soon and need to be re-coated regularly,” explained an official.

While proper signage will be erected at strategic points along with reflective cat-eyes on the stretch, officials claim that road highlighting has an added advantage. “Commuters often miss the overhead signage due to obstructions or if they are speeding. Since drivers generally keep an eye on the road, highlighting helps better association,” the official added.

“It is a global norm to have segregated lanes and to highlight them to designate parking, lanes for cyclists, among other things. We have asked the contractor and RITES to ensure that it is followed here too,” said Geetam Tiwari, associate professor, TRIPP.