While driving on India's national or state highways, green signboards catch the eye. These display city names, distances, and highway numbers in white letters. But have you ever wondered why these signboards are green? There are important reasons behind this.
Green color soothes the eyes
Highways are typically long routes, which often cause fatigue for drivers. During the day, roads are clearly visible in sunlight. But at night, distant visibility decreases. The colours of other vehicles and headlight glare cause eye strain. Therefore, signboards are kept green for better visibility. Green colour is quite acceptable to the eyes.
Day or night, signboards are clearly visible
You'll notice that in any situation – fog, rain, or deep night – drivers can clearly see the green signboards on highways. This is because a special type of paint is used. As a result, when car headlights fall on the signboards, they don't get washed out.
The writing font is also important
The style of writing on signboards is the same across almost all highways in India. White color is used on green backgrounds so that drivers can easily read them while driving at high speeds.
Green signboards provide direction
Green signboards primarily provide direction and road distances to travellers. Not only in India, but green signboards are also seen abroad. The white letters used on signboards help drivers understand their destination from a distance.
National highways can be identified by color
Green signboards are used to indicate national or state highways. Blue signboards are typically seen on roads within cities. The color difference helps drivers quickly understand where they are. Vehicle speeds are higher on highways, so the driving style is different. Upon entering cities, speeds must be reduced, and traffic and caution increase.
Where else besides India can these green signboards be seen?
America and Canada
In these countries' roads, green signboards with white lettering are also seen on highways. This is determined according to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). The boards display exits, destinations, and route numbers.
Europe
Many European countries use green signboards on long-route roads. These signboards also have white letters. In some places, blue signboards with white lettering can be seen. This is actually determined according to the Vienna Convention on Road Signs and Signals.
Some regions of Asia
Countries like Japan and Australia also use green signboards on expressways and major roads. This helps drivers quickly understand routes while travelling at high speeds.
