Taming the traffic

The chaotic traffic conditions on the roads have become a significant menace for law-abiding travellers. The exploding population in the country has added to the number of vehicles, especially motorcyclists, on the roads. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is doing a commendable job in efficiently administering the provincial government. She will surely add a feather to her cap if she manages to discipline road traffic by holding the traffic police department accountable.

Traffic sergeants are only active when a VVIP is expected to pass, and they are ordered to block the overflowing traffic. Motorcyclists, who behave like rudderless missiles, pose immense traffic hazards to themselves and other motorists. Unfortunately, car drivers, who appear to be educated, often behave in an unruly manner, showing little consideration for others and neglecting to use indicators before turning.

In fact, both car drivers and motorcyclists seem to consider using indicators as unfashionable. Hardly any bike driver uses rearview mirrors, and if they do, the mirrors are usually adjusted to reflect their own faces. Balancing a cell phone between the ear and shoulder while riding and turning is a stunt more suitable for a circus.

A nation’s discipline is often reflected in its road traffic. In educated societies, drivers use indicators when turning or changing lanes and show courtesy to other road users. In contrast, on our roads, everyone seems in a great hurry to reach their destination. And for what? Often, it’s just to sit and gossip.

Despite the widening of roads and the construction of underpasses in Lahore to facilitate the smooth flow of traffic, road users remain undisciplined and disregard traffic rules. This unruly behaviour is primarily due to the negligence of the traffic police department. VVIPs face no inconvenience as police swiftly clear the way for them, blocking regular traffic and causing significant difficulties for law-abiding citizens. The number of VVIPs is increasing, seemingly indifferent to the struggling economy.

Larger vehicles easily claim the right of way, reflecting the arrogance of those behind the wheel. The police show little concern when car drivers park at road turns, obstructing others who need a wider turning radius. To make matters worse, traffic police often set up checkpoints at these critical turns, further aggravating the situation.

Reportedly, the salaries of officials at the National Electric and Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) recently increased manifold without cabinet approval. For instance, the chairman’s gross salary is now Rs3.25 million per month, along with other privileges, including a palatial house, vehicles and domestic staff. It is a tragic irony for a nation burdened with debt to have so many VVIPs enjoying extravagant benefits.

The IMF mission that recently visited Pakistan to assess governance, including corruption and mismanagement, should have scrutinised these outrageous salary hikes. How can a country surviving on loans afford to pay such enormous salaries to its so-called public servants, who often act more like rulers?

Along with these salary increases, officials receive brand-new vehicles, further contributing to traffic congestion. The sight of black double-cabins with green registration plates parked at public parks is now commonplace.

The only way to streamline road traffic is by imposing heavy fines for traffic violations. Traffic should also not be blocked for VVIP movements, allowing these ‘sahibs’ to experience the same road challenges faced by ordinary taxpayers.

The issuance of driving licences for both cars and motorcycles must be made more stringent, moving away from the current practice that seems to grant a ‘license to kill.’ The traffic situation can improve rapidly if the government has the will to enforce the rules. Road traffic is more visible than any other civic activity or measure of progress. Let’s hope the Punjab CM agrees with this perspective.

The writer is a freelance columnist based in Lahore. He can be reached at: pinecity@gmail.com