In 5 months, 103 killed in 724 road accidents

Srinagar, July 05: The Kashmir Valley has witnessed an alarming surge in road accidents in the current year up to May, with a total of 724 incidents reported across various districts, resulting in 103 fatalities.
Srinagar leads with 201 accidents, including 16 fatal ones, resulting in 17 deaths and 221 injuries. Ganderbal and Budgam followed closely, recording 56 and 65 accidents respectively, causing significant casualties and injuries.
Statistics compiled by the Jammu and Kashmir traffic police reveal that Anantnag stands out with 116 accidents, including 10 fatal cases, resulting in 10 deaths and 152 injuries. In Kulgam, 48 accidents have been reported, 14 of which were fatal, resulting in 18 deaths and 55 injuries.
Pulwama, Shopian, and Awantipora report lower numbers, but the severity remains concerning, with Shopian documenting the least at 23 accidents, resulting in 4 deaths and 38 injuries.
Baramulla, Bandipora, and Kupwara also face significant challenges, with Baramulla experiencing 119 accidents, 8 of which were fatal, leading to 19 deaths and 116 injuries. Bandipora and Kupwara report 9 and 8 accidents respectively, with Bandipora seeing 5 fatalities and 42 injuries. Handwara and Sopore, although having fewer incidents, still record notable numbers, with 31 and 29 accidents respectively, causing multiple injuries and fatalities.
The data highlights a pressing need for enhanced road safety measures and strict enforcement of traffic regulations to curb the rising trend of accidents in the region. In comparison, in 2023, the Kashmir Valley experienced a total of 1,200 road accidents, resulting in 150 fatalities. Srinagar district recorded the highest number of accidents in 2023, with 320 incidents reported.
An official from the traffic department of Kashmir, speaking to Rising Kashmir on the condition of anonymity, mentioned that Srinagar witnesses these accidents due to its high traffic volume. He noted a decline in road accidents in the city and emphasized the role of traffic police in issuing fines and seizing vehicles from violators. However, he also stressed the crucial role of parents in educating their children about road safety before tragic incidents occur.
The traffic police are intensifying operations against violators each day, while other concerned departments should also play a pivotal role in providing better road facilities and necessary infrastructure.