Road safety: Move beyond enforcement

The Kashmir Zone Police’s intensified traffic enforcement drive, which has resulted in action in more than 3,000 violation cases and seizure of nearly 1,800 vehicles in just two weeks, highlights the growing urgency of improving road discipline across the Valley. The registration of over 500 rash driving cases and 450 cases of triple riding since October 17 reflects the scale of violations that continue to endanger motorists, passengers and pedestrians. Road safety cannot be treated as a routine law-and-order issue. Reckless driving, stunt biking, overspeeding and disregard for basic traffic regulations put innocent lives at risk. Every violation has the potential to cause an accident, leaving families devastated and placing an additional burden on the healthcare system. The police action is therefore necessary and deserves public cooperation. However, enforcement alone cannot bring lasting change unless it is accompanied by sustained awareness and responsible behaviour. Despite awareness campaigns conducted since the beginning of the year, violations continue to occur, suggesting that a section of motorists remains indifferent to traffic rules. This attitude needs to change. Young riders, in particular, must understand that public roads are not places to perform dangerous stunts or display speed. Parents also have a responsibility to ensure that minors do not drive vehicles without valid licences. Similarly, vehicle owners must follow safety requirements and avoid practices that put others at risk. At the same time, authorities must strengthen road infrastructure, improve traffic management, identify accident-prone stretches and ensure proper regulation of public transport. Enforcement should remain consistent, transparent and free from selective action. The seizure of vehicles and registration of cases may send a strong message, but the ultimate objective must be fewer accidents and safer roads. Traffic rules are not merely legal obligations; they are essential safeguards for human life. A culture of road discipline must become a shared responsibility of every citizen.