SSP Amara Athar’s tenure as Lahore’s Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) has left an indelible mark on the city’s traffic management landscape. Her dynamic leadership and forward-thinking initiatives significantly enhanced road safety, streamlined traffic flow, and empowered marginalized groups. Recently, she handed over her responsibilities to her husband, DIG Athar Waheed, marking a unique and historic transition in Lahore’s traffic department.

Trailblazing Initiatives as CTO Lahore

SSP Amara Athar, who held the position since December 2023, introduced innovative programs aimed at improving accessibility and fostering inclusivity. Among her hallmark initiatives were:

Student-Focused Licensing Services: Introducing door-to-door licensing services for university and college students to instill responsible driving habits in the younger generation.

Empowering Women Drivers: Establishing dedicated driving centers for women to learn both car and motorcycle driving, a groundbreaking effort to promote gender equality and independence on Lahore’s roads.

She also spearheaded rigorous enforcement campaigns, including the mandatory helmet initiative for motorcyclists, significantly reducing fatal accidents. Awareness campaigns on lane discipline and stop-line observance further contributed to a safer and more organized traffic flow in the city.

Innovations in Traffic Technology

Under SSP Amara’s leadership, Lahore’s Traffic Police adopted technological advancements such as the Traffic Response Unit, equipped with body cameras and real-time data systems. This unit was instrumental in addressing traffic bottlenecks and responding promptly to emergencies, showcasing her commitment to modernizing traffic management.

Transition in Leadership

SSP Amara Athar’s successor, DIG Athar Waheed, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as CTO Lahore. A distinguished officer of the 30th Common and a 2003 graduate of the Police Service of Pakistan (PSP), DIG Waheed’s career spans two decades of diverse assignments.

He has served as:

DIG Patrolling and Highways Police (PHP), where he ensured road safety across major highways.

Director FIA Punjab Zone II and FIA Islamabad, where he demonstrated strong administrative and investigative capabilities.

Commandant at the National Highways and Motorways Police Training College, fostering professional excellence.

His extensive experience includes roles as SP Operations, DPO Upper Dir, and CPO Jhelum, among others. DIG Athar Waheed’s operational and administrative expertise ensures the continuation of efficient traffic management in Lahore.

SSP Amara Athar’s New Role

With her transfer, SSP Amara Athar has been appointed as Assistant Commandant Police (ACP) Discipline. In this critical role, she will oversee the conduct and professional standards within the police force, ensuring accountability and fostering a culture of excellence.

A Legacy of Leadership

SSP Amara Athar’s transformative contributions as Lahore’s CTO have set a benchmark for leadership in public service. Her initiatives not only improved traffic management but also promoted inclusivity and innovation.

As she embarks on her new assignment as ACP Discipline, her legacy continues to inspire progress in law enforcement, and Lahore’s traffic management stands as a testament to her vision and dedication.