From chaos to coordination: IEI-GCC push for sustainable traffic solutions in Kashmir

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Ziraat Times
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Srinagar: In a collaborative civil society-government effort toward reimagining urban mobility in the region, the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre, in collaboration with the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), hosted a high-impact one-day workshop titled “Transforming Traffic, Ensuring Safety” in Srinagar today. Focused on addressing traffic challenges and enhancing road safety through a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach, the workshop brought together technocrats, architects, civic officials, academics, and policy experts for an unprecedented dialogue on sustainable transport solutions for Srinagar and beyond.

The workshop was inaugurated by  Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, who served as the Chief Guest. In his address, he emphasized the urgent need for integrated and actionable solutions to Kashmir’s rising mobility challenges. Er. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai (Retd. IAS), former Advisor to the Governor of J&K, presided as Guest of Honour, while  Lateef uz Zaman Deva, Vice-Chairman, GCC, delivered the welcome address. Er. Iftikhar Ahmad Hakim, FIE, Chairman, IEI J&K State Centre, delivered the valedictory address, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive infrastructure planning. The event was coordinated by Dr. Jahangeer Ali, MIE, Honorary Secretary, IEI J&KSC.

The technical session featured a series of thought-provoking presentations:

  • Er. Aaqib Zahoor (NIT Srinagar) addressed “Smart City – Local Issues & Way Forward”, focusing on IT-driven urban interventions.

  • Ar. Suhaib Naqashbandi (Srinagar Smart City Ltd.) shared “Sustainable Transport Initiatives of Srinagar Smart City”, outlining current and planned urban mobility projects.

  • Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi (MIE) presented on “Forgiving Roads”, a safer design approach for accident reduction.

  • Dr. Fiaz Fazili (GCC) discussed “Traffic Woes in Kashmir: Analysis & Sustainable Solutions”, drawing from data-driven research.

  • Er. Shafat Qazi, Founder of BQE Software, USA, delivered a global perspective through his talk on “Best Traffic Management Practices around the World.”

  • Prof. Mohammad Shafi Mir, Dean of Academic Affairs, NIT Srinagar, offered policy insights for creating a safer and more efficient transport system in the city.

The event drew participation from a wide array of stakeholders, including the Vice-Chairman of JKLCMA, SSP Traffic Srinagar City, eminent former Chief Engineers, executive members of IEI J&KSC, as well as students, urban planners, and academics—highlighting a collective will to reform Kashmir’s urban traffic systems.

A Panel Discussion cum Q&A Session brought the workshop to a close, fostering interactive dialogue and generating actionable recommendations. These will be compiled and submitted to the relevant government departments for policy consideration and implementation.

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