ISLAMABAD – Commuters in the capital are finally experiencing smoother traffic flow as 95% of previously blocked U-turns and intersections have been reopened after 13 years.
The initiative, led by Deputy Commissioner Irfan Memon, aims to reduce congestion, shorten travel routes, and lower fuel costs for residents. Memon emphasized that the reopening was a coordinated effort among all stakeholders and assured that the changes are permanent.
While the move has been widely welcomed, traffic officials warn that additional traffic police and functioning signals may be required to manage the reopened intersections effectively. A senior police official noted that staffing adjustments will be necessary to prevent traffic buildup and ensure road safety.
The U-turns were originally sealed in 2011, citing security and traffic concerns, but recent statements suggest that manpower shortages played a significant role in the closures. Critics argue that the move neglected pedestrian rights, eliminating zebra crossings and creating hazards for schoolchildren and pedestrians.
Officials now hail the reopening as a step toward pedestrian-friendly urban mobility, but stress that continued oversight and public cooperation are essential for long-term success.
