Signal-free corridor

In 2014, the Islamabad Expressway, from Zero Point to Rawat, was converted into a signal-free corridor to ease traffic congestion. However, the traffic situation has gone worse since the inauguration of the corridor. This is because heavy vehicles, including trucks, containers and oil tankers, can be frequently seen on the expressway during peak hours. The presence of heavy vehicles disturbs the smooth flow of traffic. As a result, commuters, especially those who are going to or travelling from DHA, Bahria, Korang, Naval Anchorage, Pakistan Town, Jinnah Gardens and Media Town, remain stuck for hours. Tens of people are killed or maimed in accidents that take place on the road on a regular basis.

The reason behind the dismal state of traffic is due to a lack of bypasses in Islamabad. The Islamabad authorities must look into the matter and take necessary steps to alleviate the suffering of peoples. A bypass from Tarnol to Rawat should be constructed on an urgent basis so that heavy vehicular traffic does not enter Islamabad. This step will ensure the safety and convenience of residents of the above-mentioned areas. In the meanwhile, the CDA must allow heavy traffic movement only from 11.00pm to 6.00am.

Ikram Rasheed

Islamabad