In a landmark move towards smart policing, the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has begun using drone technology to monitor traffic and catch violators on the capital’s busiest highways. The initiative marks a major step in modernizing traffic management and ensuring road safety for millions of commuters in Islamabad.
Drones to Oversee Islamabad Expressway and Srinagar Highway
According to Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Captain (R) Syed Zeeshan Haider, drones have already been deployed to oversee two of Islamabad’s most critical arteries — the Islamabad Expressway and Srinagar Highway — both of which are notorious for heavy traffic flow and frequent violations.
Speaking to APP, CTO Haider said, “This initiative is a major step forward in our efforts to bring more discipline to Islamabad’s roads. By utilizing drone surveillance, we aim to reduce violations, ease traffic congestion, and ensure the safety of all road users.”
Real-Time Monitoring and Instant Fines
The new system enables real-time monitoring of traffic. Drone cameras will capture violations such as lane violations, signal jumping, and reckless driving. Offenders caught on drone footage will face immediate fines, ensuring stricter compliance with traffic rules.
The ITP believes that drone-based monitoring will serve as an effective deterrent against habitual violators and help maintain smoother traffic flow during peak hours. In addition, the drones will help pinpoint congestion hotspots, allowing traffic teams to respond swiftly and manage traffic more efficiently.
Expansion Plans for Drone Surveillance
Initially, drone surveillance is focused on the Islamabad Expressway and Srinagar Highway. However, CTO Haider confirmed that the plan will expand to cover other busy roads and sectors in the capital in the coming phases.
“In the next phase, we plan to extend drone coverage to other key sectors and roads throughout the city,” added CTO Haider. He emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize the capital’s traffic policing with the latest technology.
A Modern Step Towards Safer Roads
Islamabad’s rapid urban growth has increased the number of vehicles on its roads, leading to traffic jams and frequent rule violations. By integrating drone technology, the Islamabad Traffic Police aims to tackle these challenges head-on.
This initiative is expected to improve road discipline, enhance commuter safety, and help manage traffic more effectively during rush hours and peak travel seasons.
What Commuters Should Know?
Drivers are advised to follow all traffic rules strictly as drone surveillance leaves little room for leniency. Violators can expect swift fines based on high-resolution drone footage, which will be used as evidence.
With this step, Islamabad joins a growing list of cities around the world that are adopting advanced technology to improve urban mobility and road safety.
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