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:
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Defensive Driving Techniques – anticipating hazards and reacting quickly
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Student Safety Protocols – seat belts, seating arrangements, and emergency exits
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Stress and Fatigue Management – teaching drivers to recognize fatigue
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First Aid Training – basic life-saving support until professional help arrives
