By Syed Tauqeer Zaidi

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jan 7 — A multi-million rupee traffic signal project in Dera Ismail Khan has failed to deliver lasting results, leaving major intersections without functioning signals and causing widespread disruption for commuters.

The signals, installed several years ago to manage growing traffic congestion, were part of a district-level initiative backed by elected representatives. However, according to local sources, the system began to malfunction shortly after installation. The faulty signals were eventually removed, and no replacements have been installed since.

As a result, traffic jams have become a daily challenge across the city, particularly during peak hours around schools, offices, and markets. Residents report long delays, with patients, elderly citizens, and women facing particular hardship due to the lack of traffic regulation.

The absence of signals has placed additional pressure on traffic police, who now manage intersections manually. Violations such as wrong-way driving, illegal parking, and overloading have become common, increasing the risk of accidents and further complicating traffic flow.

Local voices say the administration has made repeated assurances about resolving the issue, but no visible progress has been made. Many fear that without timely intervention, the city’s traffic system could face complete breakdown.

Public concern is mounting. Citizens and civil society groups have appealed to senior officials, including the Chief Justice of Pakistan, the Prime Minister, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and provincial transport authorities, urging immediate action. Their demands include installation of new, functional traffic signals, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and relief from daily congestion.

Calls for accountability have also grown louder. Residents are seeking a transparent inquiry into the failed signal project, questioning how public funds were spent and why the system collapsed so quickly. They argue that without oversight and reform, similar infrastructure projects may continue to fall short of public expectations.

Also read: Public concern grows over poor roadwork on Shangla–Alpurai Highway