KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Apr 10: Signalling a transformative shift in traffic management across the Valley, newly appointed Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Kashmir, Haseeb Ur Rehman, has unveiled a comprehensive and forward-looking strategy that blends cutting-edge technology with grassroots public participation to create a safer and more efficient road network.
Having earlier played a pivotal role in laying the foundational traffic systems of Srinagar in 2010, Rehman returns to the region with a renewed vision tailored to contemporary challenges. At a high-level consultative meeting in Srinagar attended by representatives of the Jammu and Kashmir All Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), BARS, and members of civil society, the DIG outlined a roadmap that moves beyond conventional enforcement towards what he described as “collective digital action” supported by societal reform.
Central to this vision is the integration of Artificial Intelligence into traffic management. Rehman emphasized that AI-based tools will be deployed to analyze traffic patterns, predict congestion, and enable dynamic regulation of vehicular movement in real time. This will be complemented by the rollout of an Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS), designed to provide round-the-clock monitoring, automated detection of violations, and data-driven enforcement. Officials believe that such systems will significantly improve efficiency, reduce human intervention, and ensure consistency in the application of traffic laws.
The DIG made it clear that the overarching goal of these interventions is to move towards a zero-fatality traffic environment. By harnessing technology to identify risk factors and enforce compliance proactively, authorities aim to curb the rising incidence of road accidents that has become a matter of serious concern in recent years. Rehman stressed that smart enforcement will not only penalize violations but also act as a deterrent, thereby preventing accidents before they occur.
However, he was equally emphatic that technology alone cannot bring about lasting change. Underscoring the importance of behavioural transformation, Rehman called for an extensive Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign to promote road safety awareness across all sections of society. He highlighted the need for active collaboration with educational institutions, non-governmental organizations, and community leaders to ensure that the message of responsible driving reaches every household in the region.
Particular concern was expressed over the growing trend of underage and reckless driving, which the DIG described as a major threat to public safety. He indicated that strict enforcement measures, combined with targeted awareness initiatives, would be undertaken to address this issue decisively. According to officials, intensified checking and stricter penalties are likely to be introduced in areas identified as high-risk zones.
Rehman reiterated that ensuring road safety is a shared responsibility and urged citizens to actively contribute to the transformation by adhering to traffic norms and encouraging others to do the same.
“Technology supports us, but collective effort sustains us. It is the duty of every individual to ensure our roads are safe. Through unified action, we will deliver a world-class system,” said Haseeb Ur Rehman.
With a dual focus on technological innovation and public engagement, the Traffic Police Kashmir appears set to embark on a new chapter in mobility governance. The proposed reforms, if implemented effectively, are expected to not only ease congestion and reduce accidents but also foster a long-term culture of discipline and accountability on the roads of Kashmir.
