Traffic Dept directed to make effective use of tech in Jammu, Srinagar

Expressing concern over the underutilisation of the Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS) and Intelligent Traffic Light System (ITLS), a senior Jammu and Kashmir government official on Sunday directed the traffic department to make effective use of both systems in the twin capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo said these systems were introduced to modernise traffic management through minimal human intervention and to improve enforcement efficiency. He said this while chairing a high-level meeting to review the implementation and status of electronic enforcement systems for road safety across the Union Territory.

Emphasising optimal utilisation, Dulloo said the underuse of ITMS and ITLS “defeats the very purpose for which such advanced infrastructure was created”. He called for immediate restoration, upgrade and full operationalisation of both systems to ensure smoother, citizen-friendly traffic movement.

Dulloo noted that the aim of the traffic police should be to enhance traffic management and ensure greater ease for the public.

Taking note of faulty cameras and traffic lights, he directed their prompt repair or replacement. He further stressed extending Rural ITMS to major district junctions including Anantnag, Baramulla, Kathua, Udhampur and Samba, saying, “Such systems can significantly improve the traffic flow, reduce congestion and enhance safety at critical intersections.”

Commissioner Secretary, Housing and Urban Development, Mandeep Kaur, stated in the meeting that a Detailed Project Report worth Rs 1.88 crore has been prepared for full restoration and modernisation of ITLS junctions, adding the target is to make all ITLS and ITMS points fully functional by December.

Inspector General of Traffic, M Suleman Choudhary, said the ITMS became operational in 2024, with 552 cameras at 44 junctions in Jammu and 828 cameras at 68 junctions in Srinagar. He said services in Srinagar were affected due to licence expiry.

On ITLS infrastructure, officials said 21 of the 64 sites in Jammu were closed due to road widening work, while 57 of the 66 sites in Srinagar are functioning.