Despite the much-touted implementation of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) at numerous strategic locations in Jammu city, a significant number of these sophisticated traffic signals at crucial junctions languish in a state of disrepair. Both the Traffic Department and the Jammu Municipal Corporation, entrusted with the maintenance of these signals, engage in a disconcerting blame game. The paradoxical scenario wherein cutting-edge Smart City initiatives are being implemented while the responsibility for maintaining these systems remains nebulous is nothing short of perplexing. It appears that the prevailing ethos revolves around initiating projects, securing approvals, and eventually executing installations, with a conspicuous absence of accountability for operational efficacy. The ostensibly laudable intention behind the installation of these traffic lights, aimed at ameliorating traffic congestion and orchestrating a more organized flow of vehicular movement, is eclipsed by the glaring lack of commitment to their maintenance. Even during the installation phase, vociferous complaints regarding the placement of these lights were rife.
The CAG report also pointed out the wasteful expenditure incurred as, following the installation of a traffic lighting system, the Traffic Department decided to operate only certain lights at intersections in signal mode and rest in blinking mode. This highlighted the evident limitations in the functionality of these traffic signals. It became apparent that a thorough assessment of site conditions, traffic patterns, and junction requirements was lacking before the installation of the traffic lighting system. What is disconcerting, however, is the conspicuous absence of any substantive action following these admissions. Despite the extravagant expenditure amounting to crores of rupees, the resultant output is a resounding zero, with both concerned departments engaged in a blame-shifting exercise. The gravity of the situation necessitates a thorough investigation and a stringent determination of accountability. Questions loom large regarding the genesis of the DPR, its approvers, the stipulated clauses therein, and the designated entity responsible for maintenance. Astonishingly, these fundamental queries remain unaddressed, fostering an environment of bureaucratic evasion. Higher authorities must intervene promptly to extricate this imbroglio.
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