RAWALPINDI: The out of order traffic signals have made long traffic jams during peak hours a routine matter in most of the areas of Rawalpindi city, putting the lives of daily commuters in peril.
Talking to APP here on Wednesday, a Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) official said that the authority needed funds for the maintenance of traffic signals in the city. He, however, added that there was no fresh survey of inoperative traffic signals available with RDA so that it could demand funds from the government for the project.
He further said after a complete report on the status of traffic signals, it would be easier for the authority to acquire adequate funds for its repairs.
A traffic police official informed that the City Traffic Police (CTP) has deputed its wardens on all the roads to cope with the traffic issue, however, it is the responsibility of RDA to carry out the maintenance of the non-functioning traffic signals. He said that the CTP has made all possible arrangements to ensure smooth traffic flow in the city.
A survey of the city revealed that the situation was worst on Saidpur Road, Murree Road, Asghar Mall Road, Fifth and Sixth roads among others where the junctions were in a complete mess. The citizens, especially office workers, students and patients were facing problems due to this constant problem.
The traffic signals installed on Asghar Mall Road had broken down soon after they were made functional, whereas the situation on Saidpur Road and other areas was not very different as all the signals were not working.
The residents said that there were different schools, colleges, hospitals and other important workplaces in the vicinity due to which there was a huge traffic influx in the area, adding, at times it completely obstructs the traffic flow, making it move at a snail’s pace.
They urged RDA to take action to avoid any serious accident.
