The dysfunctional state of traffic signals across Jammu City is not merely a matter of technical inconvenience-it is a pressing urban challenge that threatens public safety, disrupts daily commuting, and hampers effective traffic regulation. The non-release of Rs 7 crore for a fresh AMC is at the heart of this issue, leading to widespread signal failure and chaos at major intersections. Traffic signals are the backbone of any modern traffic management system. Their role in regulating vehicular flow, reducing congestion, and ensuring pedestrian safety is indispensable-especially in a growing urban centre like Jammu. The Intelligent Traffic Management System, introduced by Jammu Smart City Limited, had initially shown promise. However, once the original AMC lapsed and the subsequent maintenance funds stalled, the majority of these signals began failing. In some locations, the signals were reportedly non-functional even before the contract ended, largely due to faulty placement and a poor match with on-ground traffic dynamics.
This neglect has resulted in disorder at over 60 intersections. Despite commendable efforts by the Traffic Police and ITMS command room monitoring via CCTV, the absence of automated signal coordination has caused frequent violations, long snarls, and a heightened risk of accidents-especially during night hours or adverse weather conditions when visibility is already low. The truth remains: traffic police personnel, no matter how diligent, cannot be deployed at every junction. Automated systems are not only efficient but also enforce discipline through consistent and impersonal rule enforcement, particularly when linked with e-challan systems. These tools not only ease the burden on human resources but also create accountability among road users.
Given the clear benefits and the deteriorating ground realities, the Government must not only urgently release the pending Rs 7 crore but also take this opportunity to reassess and relocate abandoned or poorly placed signals to intersections where they can be put to effective use. Strategic planning, data-driven positioning, and timely upkeep should be the guiding principles of any urban mobility framework. This is not a matter of luxury but of necessity. Ignoring it not only jeopardises lives but also undermines the goals of smart urban governance.
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