J&K’s Road Accident Concerns: Urgent policy interventions needed

The alarming statistic of 346 road accident fatalities in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) over the past five months underscores a dire need for a comprehensive overhaul of our road safety mechanisms. With an average of two deaths daily, this crisis not only reflects a severe public health issue but also an urgent call to action for policymakers, civil society, and law enforcement agencies.

The data made public last week paints a grim picture: 2,318 road accidents resulting in 346 fatalities and 3,089 injuries within a mere five months. This translates to 262 fatal accidents and 2,056 non-fatal incidents, highlighting the precarious state of road safety in the region. Despite the Traffic Police issuing 612,842 challans by May this year, the persistent high rate of accidents and fatalities points to systemic flaws that need addressing.

One of the most pressing needs is substantial investment in road infrastructure. The majority of J&K’s roads, particularly those in hilly areas, are in poor condition. These roads are often narrow, poorly maintained, and lack proper signage and lighting, making them perilous for drivers and pedestrians alike. The government must prioritize the repair and modernization of these roads. This includes widening narrow passages, installing proper drainage systems to prevent water logging, and ensuring that all roads are well-lit and clearly marked.

Ensuring that vehicles, especially public transport buses and commercial trucks, meet stringent safety standards is another critical measure. Many public transport vehicles in J&K have low safety ratings, contributing to the high number of fatalities and injuries in accidents. The government should mandate regular safety audits of all commercial vehicles and enforce compliance with safety standards. This includes checking for proper maintenance, the presence of safety features such as seat belts, and ensuring that vehicles are not overloaded

While the issuance of challans indicates an effort to enforce traffic laws, it is evident that current measures are insufficient. A more stringent and consistent enforcement of traffic regulations is essential. This includes not only penalizing violators but also ensuring that penalties are a sufficient deterrent. Increasing fines for traffic violations, particularly for offenses that are likely to result in accidents, such as speeding and reckless driving, can help enforce discipline on the roads.

The Traffic Police must also be adequately staffed and equipped. The current understaffing and lack of essential gadgets and equipment hinder effective traffic management in J&K. Investing in advanced technologies, such as speed cameras, breathalyzers, and automated number plate recognition systems, can aid in better monitoring and enforcement of traffic laws.

Public education campaigns are crucial in changing the driving culture and behavior in J&K. Many accidents occur due to a lack of awareness about traffic rules and the consequences of violating them. Comprehensive education campaigns targeting drivers, pedestrians, and school children can foster a culture of road safety. These campaigns should emphasize the importance of seat belts, helmets, obeying speed limits, and the dangers of drunk driving.

Collaborating with media outlets, educational institutions, and community organizations can help disseminate these messages more effectively. Regular workshops and training sessions for commercial vehicle drivers, who are often involved in accidents, can also enhance their understanding of road safety practices.

There is a need for comprehensive policy and legislative reforms to enhance road safety. This includes revising existing traffic laws to make them more stringent and aligning them with international best practices. Establishing an independent road safety authority tasked with monitoring road safety measures, conducting regular safety audits, and coordinating between various government departments can lead to more effective implementation of road safety policies.

The current road safety crisis in J&K is an issue that requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. By investing in infrastructure, strengthening law enforcement, enhancing public education, ensuring vehicle safety standards, and implementing robust policy reforms, we can significantly reduce the number of road accidents and fatalities. It is imperative that the government acts swiftly and decisively to safeguard the lives of J&K’s citizens and visitors and make our roads safer for everyone.