Work to reduce fatalities

Jammu and Kashmir has yet again recorded huge deaths due to the road accidents in the ongoing year—2021 as 713 fatalities have taken place due to the accidents. In the ensuing year, over 5000 road accidents have occurred across Jammu and Kashmir. From January 2021-November 2021, 6,447 persons have sustained injuries in 5,036 road accidents. The fresh report has, however, shown decline in the number of deaths, but the graph has witnessed an increase in many districts. Jammu district has reportedly witnessed the highest number of deaths in road accidents where 102 persons have lost their lives in the same period. But, in order to reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities, there is a need to identify factors contributing to road accidents and take proactive measures, ensuring enforcement of safety laws in true spirit and making improvements in the response system and spreading awareness on road safety. The government should also identify the spots where accidents are taking place frequently. Although the government has claimed the establishment of eight Trauma Centres in various districts, such centres should come at these vulnerable places so that the precious lives in case of eventuality could be prevented due to proper care. Moreover, there is a need to create more awareness among the masses with regard to the traffic rules so that the number of road accidents could be controlled and the precious lives saved.