Citizens hold key to making Rawalpindi roads safe

As congestion on roads worsens and accidents become a daily occurrence in Rawalpindi, experts and civic activists alike are highlighting a critical but often overlooked truth: citizens themselves are the cornerstone of road safety.

“From bustling Raja Bazaar to the ever-busy Murree Road, the city’s arteries are choked not just by vehicles, but by indifference and rule-breaking. While government agencies, including the City Traffic Police (CTP), are tasked with managing traffic flow and enforcing laws, sustainable road safety, many argue, can only be achieved through active citizen participation,” says Tahir Mehdi.

“The real change begins when every driver, biker, and pedestrian takes personal responsibility. Laws alone can’t save lives if people refuse to follow them,” says Inspector Waseem Naqvi, a senior officer with the CTP.

“A recent string of fatal accidents involving motorcyclists and pedestrian hit-and-runs has underscored the need for behavioral change. Traffic violations—such as running red lights, over-speeding, and driving against traffic—are rampant. Observers say these are less about infrastructure gaps and more about disregard for rules,” adds Waseem.

“Our children are watching us. If we do not model safe behavior, they will grow up thinking it is normal to break the rules. Rawalpindi doesn’t just need more speed breakers or traffic signals; we need a cultural shift,” says Samina Zehra.

“In an age of smartphones and social media, citizens now have more power than ever to hold violators and authorities accountable. Local Facebook groups frequently share footage of reckless driving, broken signals, and unmarked potholes, prompting faster responses from traffic and municipal departments,” says Nazia Batool.

“Moreover, community-driven awareness initiatives—ranging from school seminars to mosque announcements—are proving effective. NGOs like Safe Roads Pakistan have begun collaborating with local schools to teach children about road safety, with hopes that the message trickles up to parents as well,” adds Nazia.

“While civic infrastructure in many parts of Rawalpindi is undeniably in need of upgrade—with poorly lit roads, missing signage, and narrow pedestrian walkways—activists say infrastructure investment will fall short unless public attitudes change,” says Noman Ali.