The decision to close the traffic signal at Tycoon Hotel Junction near Dutt Island in Visakhapatnam as part of traffic management has sparked a mixture of reactions from the public.

While some commuters and opposition parties in the city heavily criticize the move, others believe it has improved traffic flow at the junction.

According to road users traveling from Sampath Vinayaka Temple Road, RTC Complex, and Asilmetta Junction towards Siripuram and China Waltair, the closure of the traffic signal has resulted in improved traffic flow. Sashikanth, a resident of China Waltair, mentioned that during weekends, the traffic between Asilmetta and Siripuram used to be heavy, with vehicles lining up for over 300 meters at the signal.

The closure also sparked protests by BJP leaders at the junction. Visakhapatnam Parliamentary Constituency president Ravindra Medapati, along with former MLA P. Vishnu Kumar Raju, accused the police of making the decision to favor a YSRCP MP who was undertaking a construction project nearby. JSP corporator P.L.V.N. Murthy also lodged a complaint with GVMC officials, alleging unauthorized constructions at Dutt Island by the same YSRCP MP.

On the other hand, the Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP-Traffic) - G Srinivasa Rao, stated that they have received positive feedback from many commuters who support the traffic police's decision. He emphasized that the closure of the traffic signal has led to a free flow of traffic along the route, resolving congestion issues that were prevalent before. Commuters seem to prefer driving a bit further rather than waiting at the signal for extended periods.

Inspector of Traffic (East sub-division) Ch. Shanmukha Rao explained that reducing traffic signals is a common approach in developing cities to facilitate a smoother flow of traffic. Previously, drivers had to wait for about 40 seconds at the junction, causing further congestion towards Siripuram. However, with the recent changes, the congestion has been eliminated, and proper arrangements have been made for the U-turn at Sampath Vinayaka Temple.