Ishtiyaq Ahmad
Srinagar, Dec 07: In the midst of a concerning surge in road accidents in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory, the question on everyone’s mind is, “Who will stop the alarming trend?”
The Jammu and Kashmir is marred by the increasing number of accidents, posing a serious threat to public safety. Authorities, civil society, and citizens alike are grappling with the urgent need to address this issue head-on.
Official statistics paint a grim picture, with a noticeable rise in accidents over recent months.
Factors such as speeding, reckless driving, have contributed to the worrisome trend.
The question of responsibility looms large, with citizens questioning whether it is the duty of the government, law enforcement agencies, or a collective effort from the community to put a halt to the rising toll.
Local authorities have pledged to implement stricter traffic regulations, increase surveillance, and enhance road safety measures.
However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains a point of contention among residents.
Some argue that the onus lies on individuals to adhere to traffic rules and exercise caution on the roads, while others call for a comprehensive approach that involves education, awareness campaigns, and improved infrastructure.
News agency KNS reported that the government is diligently striving to improve the road infrastructure throughout the Union Territory.
The Traffic department is also stepping up to organize awareness drives and urging residents to prioritize safety.
However the experts suggest advocating for the installation of speed bumps, better signage, and improved lighting on accident-prone stretches.
Additionally, they emphasize the need for educational programs to instill responsible driving habits among the youth.
As the debate on responsibility continues, the pressing issue of road safety in Jammu and Kashmir remains a top priority.
“The collective efforts of government bodies, law enforcement agencies, and the community are crucial to curbing the rising tide of accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users in the region. The answer to “Who will stop road accidents in JK?” may lie in a collaborative and multifaceted approach that addresses the root causes and fosters a culture of responsible driving,” a retired transport official, insisting not to be named, told KNS.
In the latest accident, tragedy struck on Wednesday as a fatal road accident unfolded on the Rajouri highway in Jammu and Kashmir, claiming the life of one individual and leaving 22 others injured.
According to reports, the incident occurred when a bus en route from Manjakote to Rajouri overturned near Radha Soami Ashram in Thandikassi village, situated in close proximity to Rajouri town.
The unfortunate incident has once again underscored the need for enhanced road safety measures on this crucial highway. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to ascertain the causes and prevent future mishaps on this busy thoroughfare.
In yet another heartbreaking incident on Tuesday, a fatal accident claimed the lives of five individuals, four of whom were tourists.
The tragedy unfolded when the cab they were traveling in met with an accident at Zojila Pass on the Srinagar-Leh highway in the central Kashmir district of Ganderbal during the afternoon hours.
The devastating incident has cast a shadow over the scenic route, prompting authorities to examine the circumstances leading to the accident and reinforcing the importance of safety measures on this critical highway.
Every passing day in Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory brings with it a tragic toll of lives claimed by road accidents, underscoring the urgent need for decisive action.
It is a call to action that beckons a comprehensive approach, encompassing stricter regulations, enhanced infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and a commitment from every individual to exercise caution on the roads.
The alarming frequency of these incidents emphasizes that the time has come for a concerted effort to put an end to the devastating impact of road accidents in Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile in a tragic road accident on Thursday, at least four individuals are believed to have lost their lives following a vehicular mishap.
The unfortunate event occurred as the vehicle they were in veered off the road and plunged into a deep gorge at Zojila Pass in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
According to officials, the vehicle was en route from Kargil to Sonamarg when the accident happened.(KNS)
