Srinagar, July 15: Srinagar experienced a significant decrease in road accidents and fatalities during the first five months of 2023, marking a positive development in road safety. According to the latest data released by the city’s traffic police, a total of 171 road accidents were reported, resulting in 23 fatalities and 161 injuries within this period.
Detailed statistics obtained by Rising Kashmir indicate that the month of January witnessed 18 accidents, causing one fatality and 22 injuries. In February, 35 road accidents led to six fatalities and 25 injuries. March recorded a similar number of fatalities, with six deaths and 43 injuries reported in 48 road accidents.
April showed 42 accidents, resulting in five fatalities and 39 injuries, while May saw 48 road accidents, leading to six deaths and 43 injuries.
In contrast to the previous year, when Jammu and Kashmir observed a surge in road accidents, particularly in Srinagar, the city has now made commendable progress. In 2022, Srinagar had the highest number of accidents in the Kashmir region, contributing to a rise in injuries by over 20% and an increase in total fatalities to 805, up from 774 in 2021.
The annual report compiled by the traffic police of Jammu and Kashmir highlighted a significant rise in road accidents, reaching 6,092 in 2022 compared to 5,452 in 2021.
Authorities have identified violations of traffic rules as the primary cause of road accidents. Instances of overspeeding, running red lights, and failure to use safety gear have been recognized as contributing factors to fatal accidents.
Muzaffer Shah, SSP Traffic City, emphasized the rigorous efforts and necessary measures taken to streamline traffic in Srinagar. He stated, “We made concerted efforts and took necessary steps to streamline traffic in the city. If not for these measures, the numbers would have been much higher.”
While the decline in road accidents and fatalities during the first five months of 2023 is an encouraging development, authorities emphasize the need for continuous efforts to ensure road safety. Enforcing traffic rules and raising awareness among commuters are crucial aspects of this ongoing initiative.
SSP Traffic City, Muzaffer Shah, acknowledged, “The decline in road accidents and fatalities in Srinagar city during the first five months of 2023 is a positive development. However, there is still a need for continuous efforts to ensure road safety by enforcing traffic rules and raising awareness among commuters.”
