Kashmir, known for its stunning landscapes, is seeing a growing shadow over its roads. While traffic violations are a concern in many regions, in Kashmir, they have become a serious menace, leading to an alarming rise in accidents. Every day, we witness scenes that bring the danger home — reckless overtakes, speeding cars, and the persistent honking in bustling areas. Unfortunately, even the humble pedestrian is no longer safe, with unsafe driving often encroaching on footpaths and sidewalks.
An alarming trend seen on our roads is the increasing number of young drivers behind the wheel without proper driving license or safety gear. A common sight is young students driving motorcycles and cars, often at high speeds and without helmets or seatbelts. Many parents may believe they are offering their children freedom and convenience by giving them vehicles; however, in doing so, they may unknowingly place them — and others on the road — in harm’s way.
This growing disregard for traffic rules has led to a sharp increase in road accidents across the region. Recent incidents particularly point out that fatal accidents have surged over the past few years, largely due to reckless driving, speeding, and inadequate road safety measures. Pedestrians, too, are increasingly at risk. It’s common for individuals on foot to feel unsafe as vehicles weave through crowded areas at dangerous speeds, often ignoring designated pedestrian crossings.
Authorities have attempted to introduce stricter measures, from fines to occasional roadblocks. However, the core of the issue lies in awareness and responsibility. To bring about meaningful change, educational institutions need to take the lead. Schools and colleges, coaching institutes should prioritize road safety awareness by educating students and, crucially, their parents.
Students must learn the importance of obeying traffic rules, wearing helmets, and never driving without a proper license. Parental responsibility is equally vital — parents should realize that placing a vehicle in the hands of an untrained or underage driver risks not only their child’s safety but the safety of everyone on the road.
For Kashmir’s roads to become safer, a collective effort is required. The administration should consider stricter enforcement of traffic laws, with penalties for underage and unlicensed driving. Police and municipal authorities should work to make our roads more pedestrian-friendly by marking clear crosswalks and implementing measures to reduce speeding in densely populated areas.
Ultimately, the path forward lies in a blend of education, enforcement, and people’s cooperation. Let’s work together to ensure that Kashmir’s roads remain safe for all who use them. Only by respecting traffic laws and promoting a culture of responsible driving can we curb the rising tide of road accidents in our valley.
(Author can be reached at: [email protected])
