For those who view internet social networking sites with scorn, here’s one example of how they can be particularly useful.
The Jalisco Transportation Secretariat (SVT) is now using Twitter regularly as a means of rapidly getting information out about traffic trouble spots. In the rainy season, the information can save you a lot of time.
OK, many cynics would say that when it rains most streets become a traffic nightmare, especially in Guadalajara, but a helpful tip or two can’t do any harm.
“Severe traffic congestion on Lazaro Cardenas from Avenida Revolucion to Fuelle,” read one recent message, for example.
The service also tells you when streets are closed, when accidents have occurred blocking major routes and is generally useful when you’re about to make a journey.
The same service, in more detail, is also available through Facebook. Search for Secretaria de Vialidad Jalisco and it should come up. The same information as in Twitter is provided but there also photos, videos and other useful bits of information.
One post today gives advice we should be taking heed of: In the rainy season:
- Take extreme precautions
- Don’t cross flooded areas
- Reduce you speed
- Increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front.
The Twitter page from local daily Spanish-language newspaper Mural also gives similarly helpful advice as to traffic situations in Guadalajara: twitter.com/SOS_Mural
Aside from traffic advice, Twitter is also starting to be used in Guadalajara as a way citizens can avoid police checkpoints, especially ones doing breathalyzer tests for drunk drivers.
“Retenesgdl” is the account name and in little over a month it has 600 followers.
“Here I will post all the roadblocks, operations and key points of the day. You too can give out the details you find,” reads the blurb describing the account.
One Tweet reads: “I want to remind you all that this account is set up only to help avoid mordidas (bribes). Please continue driving with care to avoid accidents.”
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