One-Way Systems, Junction Remodelling, Enforcement Ease Traffic Congestion in Shehr-e-Khas
Srinagar, Sep 2, KNT: Traffic movement in parts of Downtown Srinagar has undergone noticeable changes over the past year following the introduction of one-way systems, junction modifications, enforcement measures and restrictions on certain categories of vehicles.
The changes have been particularly visible on traditionally congested stretches of Shehr-e-Khas, where narrow roads, heavy pedestrian movement, commercial activity and roadside obstructions have long contributed to traffic bottlenecks.
The traffic arrangements have been implemented under the supervision of SSP Traffic City Ajaz Ahmad Bhat, with DySP Traffic Mehboob-ul-Haq involved in the implementation and ground-level management of the measures.
The Rajouri Kadal-Gojwara stretch was placed under one-way movement for public transport, while traffic movement over the narrow Barbar Shah bridge was also regulated on a one-way basis. Authorities have additionally introduced barricading and junction modifications at identified choke points, including Chhati Padshahi and Kanyar.
Restrictions on e-rickshaw movement along MA Road and Residency Road formed another part of the traffic-management plan, aimed at reducing mixed traffic on already congested corridors.
Enforcement has also been stepped up. Traffic records cited in the assessment show that challan disposal increased from 30 percent in 2024 to 56 percent in 2025, while efforts were intensified to remove road obstructions and prevent vehicles from occupying pedestrian pathways.
The Downtown measures have also been accompanied by road-related works, including resurfacing, drainage improvements and junction modifications, with coordination between the Traffic Department and civil administration.
The changes, however, have not removed the wider traffic pressures confronting Srinagar. Increasing vehicle numbers, limited road width, roadside commercial activity, parking shortages and heavy pedestrian movement continue to put pressure on the city’s road network.
The Downtown experience has nevertheless provided traffic authorities with an opportunity to test whether localized interventions, particularly one-way systems and targeted enforcement, can be extended to other congested corridors.
The Traffic Department has been considering similar arrangements for other interior routes, including parts of Lal Chowk, Batamaloo and Safa Kadal-Cement Kadal, while stakeholder consultations with traders and transport operators remain important before extending restrictions to additional areas.
For Srinagar’s traffic system, the challenge now lies not merely in introducing restrictions but in ensuring that diversions, parking facilities, public transport and road infrastructure develop alongside them so that congestion is not simply shifted from one locality to another. [KNT]
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