Srinagar, May 15 (KNS):  A tragic day unfolded on the roads of Jammu and Kashmir as six individuals lost their lives in different road accidents on Wednesday, igniting immediate appeals for enhanced traffic enforcement and heightened road safety measures.

 

As per reports, in Samba two people lost their life when their two-wheeler was struck by a truck driving on the wrong side of the Jammu-Pathankot highway.

 

In Surankote, Poonch, 26-year-old died instantly when his vehicle skidded off the road and plunged into a gorge over 100 meters deep near his house in Bufliaz.

 

In Ramban, a 17-year-old was fatally hit by a speeding truck near the Banihal court complex along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.

 

Another incident in Ramban saw a driver killed and two passengers injured when a rashly driven truck collided with a parked dumper near Dalwas. Additionally, an elderly man was fatally struck in the JVC Bemina area of Srinagar on Wednesday, adding to the day's tragic toll.

 

These incidents underscore a disturbing rise in road mishaps across the Union Territory, prompting a loud outcry for accountability and a comprehensive overhaul of traffic management practices.

 

Commuters, distressed by the lack of road safety measures and the alarming speed of vehicles, unequivocally blame over speeding motorists for the increasing fatalities.

 

As the death toll from road accidents continues to climb, critical questions are being raised about the root causes and potential solutions to prevent further tragedies. 

 

Despite clear directives from the traffic police mandating helmet use for two-wheeler riders, compliance remains poor, with many ignoring these rules.

 

Calls for a comprehensive crackdown on violators and a more proactive stance from traffic authorities are resonating across the valley. Citizens are also concerned about the lack of speed checks on roads, particularly on the National Highways.

 

"Unlike other states where strict speed regulations are rigorously enforced, the valley seems to lag behind in this crucial aspect of road safety," said Mohammad Aslam, a senior citizen of Srinagar.

 

The apparent disregard for speed limits on passenger vehicles, with reckless driving being a major factor in the rising accident rate, has led to urgent appeals for action from the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) and the Traffic Police to prevent further tragedies.

 

A senior traffic police official reaffirmed the department’s commitment to enforcing traffic regulations. "Our duty involves both taking action against violators and educating drivers about safe driving practices," the official stated.

 

 "Measures targeting underage driving and rash driving are underway, with specialized equipment like ‘Speed Radar Guns’ deployed to monitor vehicle speeds. While our traffic officers diligently monitor streets for violations, it’s impossible for us to cover every corner. Ultimately, it’s the responsibility of drivers to prioritize safety and prevent accidents," the official said.

 

The official emphasized the department’s strict stance on visible violations such as driving without seat belts, helmets, using phones while driving, and over speeding. "We are unwavering in our determination to prevent traffic violations and safeguard pedestrians’ lives," he asserted. "Collaboration with stakeholders is crucial to ensure widespread compliance and enhance awareness."

 

As the Jammu and Kashmir grapples with the staggering toll of road accidents, the need for immediate action is clear. Beyond enforcement, a holistic approach that addresses deficiencies, educates road users, and fosters a collective commitment to safety is essential. Only through concerted efforts can the Jammu and Kashmir hope to avert further tragedies and ensure safer roads for all its inhabitants.(KNS)