Chief Secretary Leads Traffic Management Meeting for Jammu, Srinagar

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo convened a meeting of the Multi-Disciplinary Committee (MDC) on October 2, 2023, aimed at enhancing traffic management systems in Jammu and Srinagar. The session focused on assessing existing measures and proposing new strategies to alleviate congestion, improve road safety, and enhance urban mobility in both cities.

The meeting brought together senior administrative and police officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary of Public Works Department, the Principal Secretary of Home Affairs, and the Inspector General of Police for Traffic. Dulloo underscored the importance of swift interventions, noting that both cities serve as critical hubs for tourism and require efficient traffic management to enhance the overall commuter experience.

Action Plans for Traffic Management

Dulloo called for the prompt implementation of Intelligent Traffic Management Systems (ITMS) and Integrated Traffic Light Systems (ITLS). He instructed Divisional Commissioners to closely monitor the execution of traffic management plans and to address ongoing bottlenecks by incorporating feedback from citizens and stakeholders.

During the meeting, Divisional Commissioners provided an update on traffic improvement initiatives already in place. They reported the introduction of diversions, new roundabouts, strategically located traffic signals, and enhanced parking facilities. Additionally, they highlighted plans for dedicated bus stops, one-way traffic on congested routes, and changes in school and college timings to facilitate smoother traffic flow.

Efforts are also underway to create dedicated corridors for minibuses and regulate honking zones. Additional charging points for electric buses in the Smart City initiative are being established as part of a broader push toward sustainable urban transport.

Addressing Traffic Violations and Enforcement

The Chief Secretary expressed concern regarding traffic violations, particularly those affecting lane discipline. He reviewed actions taken against 9,204 repeat offenders identified through e-challans, with the Transport Commissioner reporting that 600 driving licenses had already been suspended. Ongoing cases are under review to determine appropriate actions based on the severity of violations.

The Inspector General of Traffic informed attendees about efforts to decongest roads, including the zoning of e-rickshaws and the implementation of one-way traffic systems in select areas. The Commissioners of Jammu and Srinagar Municipal Corporations detailed efforts to improve urban spaces, including designated hawker zones and the relocation of street vendors.

Dulloo emphasized the need for all departments to provide detailed, location-specific reports on the measures being implemented. He highlighted the importance of designated parking areas in high-traffic tourist zones and the necessity of using smaller vehicles to reduce congestion caused by larger buses.

The meeting also reviewed plans for expanding road capacity through elevated corridors, flyovers, and multi-level parking structures. Safety measures, including the establishment of no-honking and no-parking zones and the construction of medians, were also discussed.

Dulloo inquired about the status of the newly procured bus fleet intended to enhance public transportation in the cities. He called for better management of urban transport, including shikara and water transport, and measures to clear encroachments on footpaths and roadways.

The Secretary of Transport informed the Chief Secretary about capacity-building initiatives being undertaken with national-level institutions to train stakeholders involved in urban mobility and transport management.

In conclusion, the Chief Secretary reiterated the necessity for coordinated efforts among all departments, emphasizing that improved logistics and mobility planning is vital for sustainable urban development. He urged all departments to maintain focus on implementing solutions that prioritize citizen needs and deliver tangible improvements in traffic conditions in both Jammu and Srinagar.