The practice by the U.S. Border Patrol of stopping traffic in the southbound lane of the Northway in the town of North Hudson, so controversial for several years because of fears it was dangerous to passers-by, was virtually suspended.

It is now apparently occasionally in use, but with some modifications that make it at least seem more palatable.

The stop is just outside a rest area in the neighborhood of Exit 30. Two serious accidents occurred that were blamed on the stop. In both cases, vehicles unable to stop plowed into the backs of other vehicles. Two people were killed and dozens injured in the two crashes, one involving a bus.

Vigorous protests went up, and, eventually, the stops were abandoned, though Homeland Security never actually said they would never be used. The department cited numerous unspecified arrests of smugglers, illegal aliens and assorted other lawbreakers as a justification for not completely, permanently removing the practice.

Critics wondered why the stop was needed at all, 90-plus miles south of the border, if Homeland Security was doing its job effectively up north at the border itself.

Typically, a motorist would be gradually halted, and, upon arriving at the point where an officer was stationed, asked the intended destination and perhaps other questions while the officer sized up the situation. It generally didn't take more than a few seconds, and the motorist was welcomed politely to continue down the road.

Because of the few serious crashes that occurred, though, some drivers were nervous about being brought to a complete halt on a highway where the average speed is probably 72 mph. The appropriate agencies had devised and then refined a system intended to guarantee safety, but some people still wondered, with some trepidation.

One day last week, the stop had been resurrected. This time, it seemed more comfortable. Traffic was warned far up the road to begin slowing to 45 mph. Many signs, some lighted, let drivers know without doubt that an unusual circumstance awaited them.

In short, it seems extremely unlikely that any driver could fail to approach the stop without appropriate caution and foreknowledge.

That doesn't answer the key question: Is it necessary -- or even desirable -- to interrupt the flow of 70 mph traffic to double check for drugs or aliens?

That question is not one to be taken lightly. Since Homeland Security would not share statistics on arrests, it is impossible for a civilian to offer an enlightened opinion on the matter.

But, if you accept that the department accomplishes significant good in behalf of the public by instituting that stop, you can at least feel good about the safety surrounding the measure.