Speed ​​limit of 30 km/h in Dresden: traffic jams instead of safety – citizens dissatisfied!

Speed ​​limit of 30 km/h in Dresden: traffic jams instead of safety – citizens dissatisfied!

In Dresden, everything is currently centered around the issue of speed limits of 30 km/h. While the Greens in the city council are advocating for an expansion of the speed limit of 30 km/h, they often find themselves in the opposition. A sign that the discussion about speed limits in the city is gaining momentum. But not everyone shares the enthusiasm for these measures. City councilor Steffen Große from Alliance Germany warns of the possible consequences that an increase in the 30 km/h zones could have. He sees the danger that the traffic situation for cars, buses and trains will be further slowed down, especially in view of the fact that 377 new 30 km/h speed limits have already been set up in the last ten years, which could affect mobility, as the Saxon reported.

The discussion is fueled by the latest figures on the urban traffic situation. According to Traffic Mayor Stephan Kühn, the 30 km/h zones not only serve traffic safety, but also noise protection. However, there are views that doubt whether speed limits actually reduce the number of accidents. The number of traffic accidents in Dresden has remained constant for years, which is... Day24 determines.

Increasing revenue from fines

In parallel to the discussions about the 30 km/h speed limit, the number of fines in Dresden is also increasing. These have increased from 8.5 million euros since 2015 to 13.7 million euros in 2022. The city conducts mobile patrols Monday to Saturday to ensure road users adhere to speed limits. The number of controls has increased in recent years from 1,400 in 2018 to 2,400 in 2022. The mobile speed cameras, including two so-called super speed cameras, also contribute to increasing this income Day24 reported.

A conscious reduction in speed leads to an increase in traffic jams in the city. The latest data from Tomtom shows longer journey times and more traffic jams, a circumstance that is also facilitated by the collapse of the Carola Bridge. Despite these challenges, the city maintains that travel speeds have remained consistent since 2018.

Tempo 30: A step towards sustainability?

The discussion about speed limits extends beyond the city limits of Dresden. Nationwide, consideration is being given to whether these regulations could even help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Federal Environment Agency recommends the introduction of 30 km/h as the standard speed limit in urban areas. These measures could not only reduce air pollutant emissions, but also reduce noise in cities. Simulations show positive effects on the quality of life in urban areas, which could strengthen city planners and transport politicians in their arguments.

The city of Dresden seems to be facing a groundbreaking decision in the balance between traffic safety and freedom of mobility. The course is being set, but different perspectives and interests must be taken into account in order to find a solution that does not put an unnecessary burden on everyday life in the city.