Secure Srinagar, save lives

Srinagar’s roads are gradually witnessing a much-needed change. The visible decline in rash driving, stunt riding and underage driving across several parts of the city reflects a growing sense of responsibility among motorists and families alike. More importantly, this shift is contributing to a reduction in road accidents, offering relief to commuters who have long struggled with unsafe traffic conditions. For years, reckless driving by teenagers and young motorists had become a serious concern in Srinagar. Busy roads, residential areas and even highways often turned into sites of dangerous speeding and stunt riding, particularly during evening hours. Such behaviour not only endangered the lives of the drivers themselves but also posed a grave risk to pedestrians, schoolchildren and other commuters. Many tragic accidents in recent years were directly linked to negligence, overspeeding and underage driving. The recent improvement indicates that sustained awareness campaigns, stricter monitoring and stronger public participation can collectively influence road behaviour. Parents, in particular, have a crucial responsibility. Allowing minors to drive vehicles is not merely a violation of law; it is a gamble with human life. Greater awareness among families appears to be discouraging this practice, and that is a positive development for society. Equally encouraging is the increasing caution visible on city roads. The fear of penalties alone cannot create discipline unless accompanied by public understanding of road safety. Srinagar’s experience demonstrates that behavioural change is possible when society recognises the consequences of reckless driving. However, the progress achieved so far must not lead to complacency. Traffic discipline requires constant vigilance, continued awareness and consistent enforcement. Safer roads are not built overnight, but every reduction in rash driving and every accident prevented marks a meaningful step towards a more responsible and secure Srinagar.