The persistent failure of traffic signals in Jammu city has plunged the region into an unmanageable state of gridlock, causing daily inconveniences for countless commuters. Authorities confirm that most signals under the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) have remained non-functional for extended periods, effectively rendering major intersections into bottlenecks.
High-traffic areas, such as outside the Civil Secretariat, near Women College Parade, and Kachi Chawni Chowk, suffer from defunct signals that have either failed or are improperly positioned. Traffic officials acknowledge that many of these equipment installations have not worked as intended since their inception, which has led to confusion and dangerously unregulated traffic movement.
The situation has worsened significantly due to ongoing construction at critical areas including Satwari Chowk and Kunjwani Chowk, exacerbating an already reduced road capacity. Moreover, the influx of vehicles due to the Darbar Move, seasonal winter migration from Kashmir and Ladakh, along with the ongoing wedding season, has drastically increased pressure on Jammu’s streets.
Without fully functioning traffic signals, intersections often descend into chaos as traffic police struggle to manage direct flow. Regular commuters, including office-goers, students, and patients, now face frustrating delays. Many pedestrians find themselves walking on roads due to encroachment of footpaths, which adds to safety concerns.
Officials highlight that encroachments by street vendors and unauthorized structures have further narrowed the road space, worsening the congestion. Unregulated reharis have created significant blocks in various markets and residential zones, aggravating the already chaotic conditions.
Commuters voice concerns over increased fuel consumption and escalating pollution levels, as vehicles become stuck in incessant traffic jams. The dysfunctional traffic signals have not deterred the operation of challan cameras, leaving many frustrated motorists feeling penalized for conditions beyond their control.
Traffic department officials have indicated that assessments are underway, and additional manpower will be deployed at critical junctions to ease congestion. However, officials have not provided a definitive timeline for the restoration of the non-functional traffic signal system.
Jammu residents have called upon the district administration, Jammu Municipal Corporation, Jammu Smart City Limited, and the Traffic Police to take immediate and effective steps to restore traffic signals, clear encroachments, and facilitate the smooth flow of traffic across the city.
