Police unveil New Year traffic plan
Motorists caught up in a snarl-up on a Gujranwala road where such nightmarish scenes are almost a daily occurrence due to poor traffic management. Photo: Express
Islamabad Capital Police have announced a traffic plan for New Year night celebrations to ensure public safety as well as prevent traffic violations.
Under the guidance of Islamabad Capital City Police Officer (ICCPO), Dr Akbar Nasir Khan, the police is set to enforce strict measures against various traffic offences. These include wheeling, participation in car racing and other activities that disrupt the flow of traffic. Special attention will be given to motorcyclists who have heavy silencers attached to their motorcycles, which are known to cause noise disruptions.
On the night of New Year's Eve, a cadre of law enforcement personnel will be deployed.
This will include SP Traffic, four DSPs, 22 inspectors and 475 officers, which would comprise members of the specialised squads as well. These units will be strategically stationed across key roads, intersections and areas prone to traffic violations.
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Chief Traffic Officer Islamabad, Muhammad Sarfraz Virk, has issued an appeal to the citizens, urging parents to prevent their children from engaging in motorbike wheeling. He emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of others and city property during celebrations.
Special squads from the Islamabad Capital Police will carry out increased patrolling on important roads and intersections. Checkpoints will be established to enforce traffic laws rigorously, which will add an additional layer of security and deterrence against potential violations.
The police have called for cooperation from all road users, encouraging them to adhere to driving discipline.
The significance of collective efforts in minimizing risk of accidents was emphasised upon.
Capital Police is gearing up for a proactive approach towards traffic management for the night to ensure a safe and secure environment for residents and visitors during the New Year's Eve celebrations.
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Security arrangements
In Rawalpindi, police have finalised security arrangements on the eve of New Year’s night.
A police spokesman on Saturday said that over 6,600 officers and jawans of Rawalpindi police will be deployed whereas 263 traffic police officers will also be on duty to maintain the flow of traffic.
Rawalpindi police have also made special plans for tourists in Murree. Over, 350 officers will perform duties for the convenience and protection of tourists in Murree.
As many as 57 special pickets will be established across the city to prevent vandalism and aerial firing. On the other hand, the City Traffic Police has set up a special squad to check one-wheeling. Strict action will be taken against underage drivers also.
The main reason for traffic accidents is the carelessness and negligence of the parents because most of the young drivers leave the house without informing their parents with cars or motorcycles and indulge in speeding, reckless driving and wheeling which leads to fatal road accidents, he added.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 31st, 2023