Act on road safety

The increasing road accidents in Jammu and Kashmir are seen as a matter of concern as the precious lives are being lost in these accidents. However, the situation calls for an urgent action. The overloading of vehicles, weak traffic regulation and disregard for road safety norms continue to claim precious lives and cause irreversible damage to road infrastructure. If left unchecked, these factors will further undermine public safety and strain an already fragile transport system. Overloaded vehicles pose multiple risks. They reduce braking efficiency, increase the chances of tyre bursts and make vehicles difficult to control. Beyond safety, overloading accelerates the deterioration of roads and bridges, leading to frequent repairs and avoidable public expenditure. The cost of neglect is ultimately borne by citizens, both in lives lost and resources wasted. Ensuring smooth traffic regulation is equally critical. Traffic congestion, wrong-side driving and poor lane discipline have become routine in urban centres, while enforcement remains inconsistent. Technology-driven solutions such as automated challans, CCTV surveillance and intelligent traffic management systems must be expanded and backed by strict enforcement on the ground. Rules must be applied uniformly, without exception. Road safety, however, is not solely the responsibility of enforcement agencies. It demands collective responsibility. Regular safety audits, improved road signage, proper lighting and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure are essential. At the same time, the drivers must be sensitised through sustained awareness campaigns about the dangers of overloading, speeding and reckless driving. Jammu and Kashmir’s challenging terrain makes road safety an even more pressing priority. Preventing accidents requires political will, administrative resolve and public cooperation. Therefore, curbing overloading, strengthening traffic management and protecting road infrastructure have become the urgent necessities at this juncture to save precious lives and ensure safer roads for all.