Capital sees dramatic dip in traffic violations

CTO attributes significant decline to stringent enforcement of rules, increased fines

ISLAMABAD:

The stringent enforcement of traffic rules, combined with an increase in fine amounts, has resulted in a significant reduction in traffic violations in Islamabad.

Islamabad Chief Traffic Officer Muhammad Sarfraz Virk revealed that the city witnessed a considerable reduction in violations, with a reported decrease of 38,000 cases in October and November 2023 compared to the same period last year.

He attributed this decline to the increased fine amount and registration of FIRs against serious violations, especially those involving underage drivers and one-way violations. This positive trend is also attributed to enhanced cooperation from the public, driven by increased fines and comprehensive road safety campaigns, he added.

Sarfraz Virk, who assumed the charge as Chief Traffic Officer on September 28, 2023, emphasised the critical need for additional resources to further enhance road safety in the city.

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Proposing a strategic plan to fortify the Islamabad Traffic Police, Virk highlighted the submission of a proposal for increased resources, including the allocation of additional personnel and divisions. Currently managing with a workforce of 685 personnel, the proposal aims to secure eight divisions, encompassing extra DSPs, vehicles, bikes, and lifters.

The CTO expressed optimism, anticipating that the competent authority’s approval would provide essential resources, significantly bolstering the traffic police’s capacity to manage the dynamic traffic scenario in Islamabad.

Muhammad Sarfraz Virk highlighted the commitment of Islamabad police under the guidance of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO) Dr Akbar Nasir Khan to raise awareness about traffic rules and ensure a safe road environment in the capital.

To a query, he detailed efforts to educate road users, install special signboards, and conduct awareness campaigns in government offices, private institutions, and educational institutions.

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The priority, he stated, is to ensure smooth traffic flow and promptly address severe violations, he maintained. He emphasised the modernisation initiatives adopted by the Islamabad Traffic Police during the tenure of ICCPO Dr Akbar Nasir Khan to meet public expectations. These include the introduction of a streamlined one-window operation for obtaining driving licenses, the implementation of an efficient e-challan system, and the use of social media and FM radio (92.4) for public awareness.

He also revealed a system notifying licence holders one month before the expiry of their licenses. The CTO stressed the strict action being taken against tinted glass vehicles, with overall clear instructions from the interior minister and prime minister to ensure equal implementation of the law.

He explained the issuance of fine tickets, removal of black papers, and the initiation of action against shopkeepers pasting these papers. Virk detailed the efforts of police to curb route violations, overcharging of fares, and one-wheeling by youngsters. FIRs are registered against one-wheelers, with enforcement underway to instil awareness and responsibility. He urged parents to emphasise the safety of one-wheelers and other road users.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 14^th, 2023.