Traffic signals in Mardan are out of order for the last three years due to which people are facing many difficulties. The Awami National Party (ANP) provincial government at the cost of Rs40million installed traffic signals under the supervision of Mardan Development Authority in every square. However, the traffic signals were out of order due to which around 220 policemen perform their duties on every square.
Sohail Sajid, a resident of Mardan, told Pakistan Today: “The traffic signals have been installed at every square of the city but they are out of service due to which 15 to 20 policemen discharge their duties in every square of the city to avoid traffic jam”. He told that police were engaged in many activities, and if the traffic signal were made functional, it would reduce the number of policemen on every square. He lamented that traffic police and administration were not bothered about facilitating citizens.
“The traffic signals were purchased and installed on public money; therefore, they should be made functional forthwith,” he demanded.
Commenting on the issue, District Traffic Police In-charge Alamgir Khan said that the signals had not been handed over to them as of yet.” The traffic signals are out of order and it is the responsibility of the municipal administration to fix them.” He said despite several requests made by traffic police, the signals could not be fixed by the administration.