Beenish Fatima Appointed as Rawalpindi’s First Female Chief Traffic Officer 2024

In a historic appointment, Superintendent of Police (SP) Crime Investigation Agency (CIA), Beenish Fatima, is set to become the first female Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) of Rawalpindi. Fatima will take over from CTO Taimoor Khan on Friday, marking a significant milestone in the history of the city’s traffic police.

Fatima’s appointment is particularly notable as she is the first woman to hold this position in Rawalpindi since the City Traffic Police was established in 2007. This achievement places her among a small group of trailblazing women in Punjab’s law enforcement sector. She is now the third woman in the province to hold a CTO position, joining the ranks of Ammara Athar, who currently serves as CTO Lahore, and Aisha Butt, who holds the same position in Gujranwala.

Beenish Fatima also brings with her a legacy of law enforcement, being the daughter-in-law of a former Inspector General of Police Punjab. Her appointment is seen as a significant step forward for gender equality in a field that has traditionally been male-dominated.

Transition of Leadership

The outgoing CTO, Taimoor Khan, who took office on November 18, 2022, has been recognized for his contributions to Rawalpindi’s traffic management. Khan’s tenure was marked by several key initiatives aimed at improving traffic conditions in the city. Among these were the establishment of new traffic police-run driving schools and the opening of additional learner and licensing centers, which have played a crucial role in enhancing road safety and driver education in Rawalpindi.

Khan’s departure was met with heartfelt appreciation from his colleagues. In a touching farewell ceremony, traffic wardens showered him with flowers, and Khan took the time to personally thank the officers and employees, embracing them as he bid farewell.

Pioneering Change in Rawalpindi

Beenish Fatima’s appointment as CTO is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Rawalpindi’s traffic management. With her extensive experience in the Crime Investigation Agency, Fatima is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of traffic management in a bustling city like Rawalpindi. Her leadership is anticipated to focus on continuing the reforms initiated by her predecessor while introducing new strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the traffic police force.

Fatima’s role as CTO is also likely to inspire other women in the law enforcement sector, highlighting the growing opportunities for women in leadership positions within the police force. Her appointment reflects the broader efforts within the Punjab Police to promote gender equality and empower women to take on more prominent roles in maintaining law and order.

Looking Ahead

As Beenish Fatima steps into her new role, the people of Rawalpindi are looking forward to seeing how her leadership will shape the city’s traffic management. With her background and commitment to public service, Fatima is expected to bring innovative solutions to the table, ensuring that Rawalpindi’s roads are safer and more efficient for all.

This historic appointment is not just a win for Fatima but also a significant achievement for women in law enforcement across Pakistan. It sets a precedent for future appointments and highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in all sectors of public service. As Fatima takes on her new responsibilities, she carries the hopes of many who look to her as a symbol of progress and change.