IEI-GCC seminar: Engineers, experts to deliberate traffic transformation in Srinagar today

Srinagar: The Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu and Kashmir State Centre (IEI J&KSC), in collaboration with the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC), is set to host a one-day seminar today on “Transforming Traffic, Ensuring Safety” at the IEI auditorium, Church Lane, Sonwarbagh Srinagar. The event aims to tackle Srinagar’s growing traffic congestion, road safety concerns, and explore sustainable solutions through a comprehensive technical and policy-oriented dialogue.

The seminar, which begins at 2 PM, will be inaugurated by Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, who will serve as the Chief Guest. Also expected to speak are Er. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai (Retd. IAS), former Advisor to the Governor of J&K and Chairman, GCC, and Er. Iftikhar Ahmad Hakim, FIE, Chairman, IEI J&K State Centre.

Organizers told Ziraat Times the event will bring together leading technocrats, engineers, urban planners, and civil society members to share insights and policy frameworks on improving traffic systems in Srinagar city and its peripheries.

Presentations scheduled during the technical session include:

1. “Smart City – Local Issues & Way Forward”
   By Er. Aaqib Zahoor, Senior Research Scholar, Department of IT, NIT Srinagar. The presentation will explore IT-enabled interventions for traffic management under the Smart City framework.

2. “Sustainable Transport Initiatives of Srinagar Smart City Limited”
   By Ar. Suhaib Naqashbandi, Architect, Srinagar Smart City Ltd. He will highlight key sustainable transport projects being implemented in the city.

3. “Forgiving Roads”
   By Er. Irfan Ahmad Reshi (MIE), AEE (Civil), and Executive Committee Member, IEI J&KSC. His presentation will emphasize safer road designs aimed at reducing accidents.

4. “Traffic Woes in Kashmir: Analysis & Sustainable Solutions”
   By Dr. Fiaz Fazili, Member, Group of Concerned Citizens. He will present a data-driven analysis of Kashmir’s traffic challenges and propose community-centric solutions.

5. “Best Traffic Management Practices around the World”
   By Er. Shafat Qazi, Founder, BQE Software, USA. The presentation will introduce global case studies and emerging technologies relevant to traffic regulation and urban mobility.

The event will also feature a panel discussion and Q&A session, encouraging interaction between experts and attendees.

Closing Session Highlights:

The closing session will include addresses by:

• Er. Iftikhar Ahmad Hakim, Chairman, IEI J&KSC

• Er. Khurshid Ahmad Ganai (Retd. IAS), GCC Chairman

• Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, IAS, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir

The programme will conclude with the distribution of mementos, a vote of thanks by Dr. Jahangeer Ali, MIE, Honorary Secretary, IEI J&KSC, and high tea.

The seminar is expected to generate actionable ideas and foster institutional collaboration for a safer, smarter traffic system in the Kashmir region.