Check Timely Growing Traffic Hazards!

O P Sharma
opsharmajournalist@gmail.com
Traffic congestion and other hazards have become a most-pressing issue in parts but the problem in both Jammu and Srinagar cities, impacting daily life as public convenience and also the region’s economic productivity. The ever-increasing number of vehicles, inadequate infrastructure with narrow roads and inefficient traffic management strategies contribute to this pressing public problem. There are frequent number of traffic accidents leading to loss of precious lives and valuable assets. This serious situation must awaken us all to devise and take remedial measures to tackle to causes of traffic congestion in J&K. The Traffic Police, PWD, judicial frame-work , motorists including drivers pedestrians and the general public must act wisely and fast to tackle this critical problem before long.
Causes of congestion
Due to rapid urbanization, rise in population and unsuitable vision, both cities of Jammu and Srinagar, the twin-capitals of Jammu & Kashmir, have been experiencing ever-increasing all types of high vehicular traffic for movement of men and material in the old congested locations of business and other activities. Congestions and traffic jams are causing loss of time, more consumption of fuel, lot of inconvenience to daily commuters and loss to the nation. It is high time to wake up and stand up to meet this menacing problem ( which can be tackled, if the UT Admistration properly, bold and in an innovative way acts). Out of many others innovations, one solution is introduction of Rail Metros, in these two cities of Jammu and Srinagar which have been declared smart cities by the union Govt and promises were held out on the eve of elections) .
Inadequate infrastructure
The existing road infrastructure in J & K is insufficient to handle the growing number of vehicles Narrow roads, lack of Parking spaces, and limited public transport options especially ideal parking on the main roads , side Lines and even in the streets aggravate the problem.
J & K is a popular tourist destination during peak tourist seasons, the influx of tourists adds to the traffic woes, especially in areas around popular tourist sports and pilgrimage places and even rich heritage sites as also natural scenic spots.
There is a noticeable absence of modern traffic management systems. Traffic signals, surveillance cameras, and proper road signage are either missing or poorly maintained.
Encroachments and Unplanned Development
A serious problems is that of “Encroachments on roadsides. Besides unplanned urban development leads to reduced road widths, creating bottlenecks and slowing down of to traffic flow. These have to be diagnosed and remedies evolved for gradual remedial measures to obtain optimal results.
In many areas, the lack of adherence to traffic rules and regulations by drivers contributes significantly to congestion. Pedestrians and two – wheelers often add to the chaos by disregarding traffic norms. There are hardly any impact of Traffic congestion
Traffic congestion in J &k has multiple adverse effects:
Economic Losses : Delays in the transportation of essential goods and increased fuel consumption due to idling vehicles contribute to economic losses.
Increased vehicle emissions due to congestion lead to air pollution, affecting the health of residents and the environment.
Road Widening & Flyovers : Expanding and maintaining existing roads can help accommodate more vehicles and reduce bottlenecks.
Constructing flyovers and underpasses at critical junctions can facilitate smooth traffic flow.
Step-up Parking Spaces : Establishing multi-level parking facilities in congested areas can reduce roadside parking.
Modernizing Public Transport: Introducing more buses, and improving the frequency and reliability of public transport can encourage people to shift from private vehicles.
Metro and Light Rail Projects: Implementing metro and light rail systems in major cities can significantly reduce traffic on the roads.
Traffic Management Systems
Intelligent Traffic Management: Deploying intelligent traffic management systems with real-time monitoring and adaptive traffic signals can improve traffic flow.
Surveillance Cameras: Installing surveillance cameras can help in monitoring traffic violations and ensuring adherence to traffic rules.
Policy and Regulation :
Strict Enforcement of Traffic Rules: Implementing stringent penalties for traffic violations can discourage rule-breaking and promote disciplined driving.
Vehicle Quotas: Introducing vehicle quotas or odd-even schemes can reduce the number of vehicles on the road during peak hours.
Urban Planning and Zoning :
Planned Urban Development: Ensuring that new urban developments have adequate road infrastructure and are well-connected to public transport can prevent future congestion.
Green Belts and Open Spaces: Developing green belts and open spaces can help in managing traffic better and providing alternate routes for pedestrians and cyclists.
Public Awareness and Education : Traffic Awareness Campaigns : Conducting regular traffic awareness campaigns can educate citizens about the importance of following traffic rules and using public transport.
School Programs: Introducing traffic education in school curriculums can instill good traffic habits from a young age.
Technology and Innovation : Mobile Apps for Traffic Updates: Developing mobile apps that provide real-time traffic updates can help commuters plan their routes better and avoid congested areas.
Carpooling and Ride-Sharing Services: Encouraging carpooling and ride-sharing can reduce the number of vehicles on the roads .
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