By Islamabad has taken a significant step toward improving road safety with the launch of its first pelican pedestrian crossings on Constitution Avenue, one of the capital’s most important and high-traffic roads. The initiative marks a new chapter in pedestrian-focused urban development and modern traffic management in the federal capital.
The announcement was made by Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who shared the update via a post on X (formerly Twitter). He also released videos of the newly installed pelican crossings located directly in front of the Secretariat, confirming that more such crossings will be introduced across Islamabad in the near future.
What Are Pelican Pedestrian Crossings?
Pelican crossings, short for Pedestrian Light Controlled crossings, are signal-operated pedestrian crossings that allow people to safely cross busy roads. When activated, the system halts vehicular traffic using synchronized traffic signals, giving pedestrians a clear and protected crossing window. These crossings are widely used in developed cities worldwide and are known to significantly reduce pedestrian accidents.
The installation of pelican pedestrian crossings on Constitution Avenue represents the first-ever implementation of this system in Islamabad, highlighting the CDA’s growing focus on pedestrian safety and international best practices.
Why This Initiative Matters
Constitution Avenue is a fast-moving corridor that connects key government buildings and public spaces. Until now, pedestrians often faced difficulty crossing safely. The new pelican crossings aim to:
- Reduce pedestrian accidents
- Improve traffic discipline
- Ensure smoother traffic flow
- Encourage walkability in high-security zones
Growing Focus on Pedestrian Safety Nationwide
Islamabad’s move follows a similar initiative in Lahore, where the Traffic Engineering and Transport Planning Agency (TEPA) approved pelican traffic signals at 20 major roads after a successful pilot project on Mall Road. Lahore’s project includes LED-lit zebra crossings connected to the Smart City system, enabling real-time traffic monitoring and data analysis.
Future of Smart Traffic Management in Islamabad
With the successful installation of Islamabad’s first pelican pedestrian crossings, the capital is moving toward smart, safe, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. The CDA’s plan to expand these crossings across the city reflects a long-term commitment to modern urban planning and sustainable mobility.
As more pelican crossings are introduced, Islamabad is expected to set a new benchmark for pedestrian safety among Pakistan’s major cities.
