Everyone knows we have a traffic problem. Why can’t we solve the modern traffic jam? There are too many cars on the road, we have a traffic delay problem due to VVIP movement; these questions always baffle me when I am driving on Srinagar city roads. But for all the talk of traffic problems here, I’ve heard of comparatively few viable solutions. I suspect part of that is because we so rarely bother to really define the problem of a common man.
Many of us are quick to blame traffic congestion on other drivers, or VIP or VVIP movement without doing self-introspection; our erratic driving behaviours. If just those few drivers ahead of us would pay closer attention, then we could breeze by and arrive at our destination with (relative) ease. But as drivers, we’re all part of the problem. Navigating traffic in Srinagar can indeed be a stressful experience due to a variety of factors. What specific aspects of driving in Srinagar do you find most challenging or perplexing? Are there particular issues or questions that often come to mind when you’re on the road? This could help in addressing your concerns more effectively.
Any lesson you refuse to learn will repeat until you do… What a Traffic Problem Isn’t
The default assumption for many is that we have a traffic volume problem; there are too many cars on the road. Or it’s that we have a traffic delay problem; all the other cars on the road are slowing me down. This assumption is pervasive in our public discourse about transportation, fed by propaganda from the engineering lobby, for example the Urban Mobility Report and the congestion index. It’s dangerous, because it presumes a specific set of solutions. Namely, if the problem simply boils down to too many cars and not enough capacity, either we widen roads and make more room for more cars (at colossal and ruinous expense), or we somehow put a stop to development and make all those people go and live somewhere else. Unarguably, the traffic problem in Kashmir is a manifestation of rapid urbanization, infrastructural deficiencies, cultural attitudes, and government neglect. For the common man, it represents a daily struggle that affects various aspects of life, from economic productivity to mental well-being. Addressing this issue requires a multi-pronged approach that includes infrastructure development, efficient public transportation, strict enforcement of traffic laws, effective parking management, public awareness, and government accountability. Only through concerted efforts and a commitment to sustainable solutions can Kashmir hope to alleviate its traffic woes and restore a semblance of order and efficiency to its roads.
Of course, there are many factors that are out of our hands: There’s not enough supply (roads) to meet demand (traffic flow, given the number of cars); there’s road work, out-of-sync traffic lights and even the presence of pedestrians — though putting any blame on pedestrians isn’t the answer.
VVIP Movement and Traffic Chaos: A Balanced Perspective
Blaming VVIP movements solely for traffic jams, difficulties, and chaos in Kashmir is an unfair proposition. While the movement of high-profile individuals does contribute to traffic disruptions, it is just one part of a larger, more complex problem. The primary issue lies in the uncivilized driving behaviours that exacerbate the situation, making traffic management an arduous task. VVIP movements do necessitate road closures and diversions, leading to temporary traffic jams and inconvenience. Security protocols for high-profile individuals are stringent, often requiring a clear route to ensure their safety. This can cause significant delays, especially in areas with limited road infrastructure. However, these disruptions sadly are typically not infrequent and of short duration. Blaming the VVIP (Very Very Important Person) movement solely for traffic jams, difficulties, and chaos is indeed an oversimplification of a complex issue. While VVIP movement can certainly exacerbate traffic problems, it is rarely the sole cause.
Uncivilized Driving Behaviour:
A more pervasive and persistent cause of traffic chaos in Kashmir is the erratic driving behaviour of the general public. Many drivers exhibit a lack of adherence to traffic rules and regulations, resulting in a chaotic and dangerous driving environment. Key issues include: Lane Discipline: Drivers often fail to maintain proper lane discipline, leading to erratic and unpredictable driving patterns. This not only slows down traffic flow but also increases the risk of accidents.
Unauthorized Parking: Illegal and unauthorized parking on roadsides, and footpaths particularly in congested areas, often reduce the effective width of roads, leading to bottlenecks obstructing the smooth flow of traffic.
Lack of Patience and Road Rage: Impatience among drivers, erratic overtaking by two wheelers, jumping the queues leading to aggressive driving and road rage, is another significant issue. This behaviour exacerbates traffic congestion and increases the risk of accidents.
Non-compliance with Signals: Many drivers and pedestrians do not comply with traffic signals and pedestrian crossings, creating chaotic situations at intersections and roundabouts.
With my status as, ‘just Chill’ , on lack of patience when can traffic regulatory authorities say, “Enough is Enough”? An announcement on this issue which has plagued every commuter’s life, a date line. Will I live coping with the traffic anxieties? Hope is power.
Author besides being a medical doctor working at Mubarak Hospital,Srinagar, is very active in positive perception management of various moral, social and religious issues.
