After missing several deadlines, authorities Monday said that 64 Intelligent Traffic Lights (ITL) will be installed within six months in Srinagar to bring about more safety and handle traffic pressure.
Apart from other hi-tech features, the ITLs are equipped with pedestrian signal lights, vehicle sensing system and surveillance cameras.
SMC Joint Commissioner (works) Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah said that Rs 70 lakh have been released to the contractor firm to speed up the project.
He said that earlier the SMC had issued the “final notice” to the contractor asking him to resume work or else the agreement will be cancelled.
“Currently, two contractors are executing the project, and all 64 ITLs will be installed, and functional in next six months,” he said while replying to a query.
The project was scheduled to be completed by July 2019 end. It was taken up but left shortly.
Authorities have employed a Delhi-based company to install and maintain these lights at different locations across the Srinagar City.
An official said that after installation of ITLs, officials would be able to monitor traffic pressure at different routes and divert traffic on alternative routes, if so required, to avoid inconvenience to the commuters.
“The cameras fitted with the lights would catch violators jumping the red light. Challan would be sent on address of the owner of vehicle along with photograph as proof of violation. It will also help in locating the offenders in hit and run cases.
Ten existing traffic signals in and around the city centre to be upgraded to ITL are at Sangarmal Junction, Clock Tower crossing at MA Road, Fire and Emergency Services Batamaloo, J&K Bank Headquarters near Dalgate, Regal Crossing, and several intersections on the highway at Tengpora, Sanat Nagar, Hyderpora, Nowgam, and Bemina.
The new locations to be covered in the project are: Natipora, KhayamChowk, Hawal, Rambagh, Lal-Ded, Shalteng, KakSarai, Seki Dafar, Karan Nagar, Shiraz junction, Mehjoor crossing bypass, Zero Bridge Raj Bagh junctions, Baghat, Iqbal Park junction, Gojwara, TRC fountain, Jahangir Chowk, Exhibition crossing, Dalgate crossing II, IkhwanChowk, Humhama junction, and Qamarwari junction.