Tengpora to Sogam – Tragic lessons we had to learn the hard way

By Dr. Fiaz Maqbool Fazili

Road accidents have become an alarming public safety concern in Kashmir, with frequent reports of fatal collisions, particularly along the treacherous stretch between Tengpora and Sogam. The recent tragic accident involving a school bus in Handwara, which claimed the lives of two young female students and left 25 others injured, has once again underscored the urgent need for comprehensive road safety awareness programs. This heartbreaking incident highlights the critical gaps in driver training, vehicle maintenance, and traffic law enforcement. It is high time authorities, educational institutions, and civil society work together to implement strict safety measures to prevent such avoidable tragedies in the future.

On a fateful Saturday morning, a bus carrying 27 students from Government Degree College (GDC) Handwara met with a catastrophic accident in the Vadpora area of Kupwara district. The students were on an educational trip when the driver lost control of the vehicle, leading to a horrific crash.

Tragically, two young students—Asia Rahid and Mymoona Akhtar—lost their lives. Asia died on the spot, while Mymoona succumbed to her injuries at SMHS Hospital Srinagar. The remaining 25 students suffered serious injuries, with some in critical condition requiring immediate medical care.

As the news spread, the entire region was plunged into mourning. The college suspended academic activities as a mark of respect. Deputy Commissioner Kupwara expressed profound grief over the incident and assured a thorough investigation. State authorities have ordered an in-depth inquiry. But regardless of what the final report may reveal, this tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for systemic reforms—especially regarding Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for school transportation.

The Tengpora–Sogam route is notorious for its dangerous curves, poor road conditions, and occasional reckless driving. Several factors contribute to the high accident rate:

1. Reckless Driving and Over-speeding
Many drivers, especially those operating school buses and public transport, tend to overspeed and flout traffic rules. The absence of strict enforcement allows this negligence to persist, putting countless lives at risk.

2. Lack of Proper Driver Training
Most drivers—particularly those entrusted with school children—lack specialized training in defensive driving, emergency response, and student safety. Unlike developed countries, where school bus drivers undergo rigorous certification, Kashmir lacks such systems.

3. Poor Road Infrastructure
Many stretches along this route have potholes, inadequate signage, and insufficient safety barriers near sharp turns. These conditions dramatically increase the risk of accidents, especially in bad weather.

4. Negligence in Vehicle Maintenance
Many school buses and public vehicles are poorly maintained—featuring worn-out brakes, bald tires, and faulty steering. Regular inspections are either ignored or done superficially.

5. Absence of Emergency Response Systems
In the event of accidents, delayed medical assistance can be fatal. There is an urgent need for well-equipped trauma centers, rapid ambulance services, and emergency hotlines along accident-prone routes.

The Handwara tragedy highlights the urgent need for specialized training for school bus drivers. Transporting students is not an ordinary driving job—it demands higher standards.

Key training areas should include:

• Defensive Driving Techniques – anticipating hazards and reacting quickly

• Student Safety Protocols – seat belts, seating arrangements, and emergency exits

• Stress and Fatigue Management – teaching drivers to recognize fatigue

• First Aid Training – basic life-saving support until professional help arrives

Government authorities must mandate certification and enforce strict licensing for school bus drivers. Regular refresher training must also be made mandatory.

A multi-pronged approach is necessary to prevent future tragedies:

1. Strict enforcement of traffic laws
Speed limits must be enforced, with steep penalties for violations. Traffic police presence must be increased near schools and colleges.

2. Improved road infrastructure
Dangerous bends must be widened. Proper signage, reflective road markings, and safety crash barriers must be installed.

3. Mandatory vehicle fitness tests
School buses must undergo frequent mechanical inspections. Old or unfit vehicles should be permanently banned from student transport.

4. Public awareness campaigns
Schools and colleges should conduct regular road safety workshops for students and drivers. Media campaigns can promote responsible driving.

5. Strengthening emergency response
Trauma response units must be placed near high-risk areas. Ambulances with advanced life support must be made readily available. Emergency numbers and contact details should be prominently displayed across the region.

The tragic deaths of Asia Rahid and Mymoona Akhtar must serve as a wake-up call for policymakers, transport authorities, and the public. Road safety is not just the government’s responsibility—it is a collective societal duty.

The Tengpora–Sogam route, like many others in Kashmir, needs urgent and sustained intervention. Implementing robust driver training, upgrading road conditions, enforcing traffic laws, and fostering public awareness can significantly reduce accidents.

Let us not wait for yet another tragedy to remind us of the human cost of our negligence. The time to act is now. Every life saved is a step toward a safer, more compassionate, and responsible society.

Rest in Peace, Asia and Mymoona.
May your tragic loss inspire meaningful change.

Dr. Fiaz Maqbool Fazili is a medical doctor at Mubarak Hospital and a member of the Group of Concerned Citizens (GCC). He regularly contributes columns on positive perception management and public reform.
Email: [email protected]