Shahid Shabir Makhdoomi
In the wake of the tragic accident at Tengpora Bypass, where two precious lives were lost, Kashmir once again confronts the grim reality of rising road accidents. This devastating incident underscores the urgent need for a collective reassessment of responsibilities. The alarming frequency of such tragedies raises serious questions about the effectiveness of traffic management, the enforcement of laws, and the role of society in fostering a culture of safety. Observing Road Safety Days and Weeks has increasingly become a hollow ritual, as the lack of stringent implementation of traffic laws continues to cost innocent lives.
Driving in Kashmir has become perilous, with rampant underage and reckless driving, speeding, and disregard for traffic norms. A significant part of the problem lies in the disturbing trend of parents allowing underage children to drive, often treating it as a symbol of social prestige. This misplaced sense of pride has repeatedly led to catastrophic consequences, leaving families shattered and the community grieving. The societal cost of this recklessness is too heavy to ignore, yet the response from policymakers and traffic managers remains lackluster, reflecting a concerning detachment from their duties.
The Accountability Gap
Policymakers and traffic management authorities often respond to such tragedies with a tepid sense of urgency, offering temporary solutions rather than addressing the root causes. The question of their contributions looms large. If public inquiries into their failures are dismissed as distractions or attempts to shift the narrative, it undermines the very purpose of creating these structures and institutions. Such behavior not only amounts to a misuse of public funds but also makes these organizations a burden on the exchequer.
The Traffic Department cannot escape accountability. While the public often places the entire blame on traffic authorities, citizens themselves are not blameless. Many exhibit a troubling disregard for traffic laws, enabling underage and reckless driving and turning a blind eye to dangerous practices. This shared failure between the public and the authorities perpetuates the cycle of negligence and tragedy.
A Path Forward
A holistic approach is urgently needed to break this cycle of irresponsibility and accountability evasion:
Enforcement with Zero Tolerance
Traffic laws must be enforced with uncompromising strictness. Vehicle seizure, heavy fines, and the imposition of Section 302 of the IPC in cases of fatalities due to reckless driving must become standard practice. Underage drivers must be penalized alongside their guardians to send a clear message about shared responsibility.
Structural and Policy Reforms
Policymakers must prioritize road safety by upgrading infrastructure, increasing surveillance, and strengthening the Traffic Department. Adequate resources and training for traffic personnel can enhance enforcement and reduce lapses.
Community Engagement
The public must move beyond blame and actively contribute to road safety. Parents must stop enabling underage driving and teach their children about responsible behavior. Schools and community organizations should prioritize road safety education, fostering a culture of compliance and respect for laws.
Transparent Accountability Mechanisms
Traffic authorities must regularly report their performance and be held accountable for lapses. Transparent audits and public grievance mechanisms can bridge the trust deficit between the authorities and citizens.
Cultural Shift
The perception of driving as a status symbol must give way to responsible and disciplined road behavior. This cultural change requires a collective effort from all sections of society, including policymakers, educators, and media.
A Shared Responsibility
The tragedy at Tengpora Bypass serves as a grim reminder of the consequences of negligence at multiple levels. Policymakers, traffic authorities, and the public must collectively own their share of responsibility. Without decisive action and shared accountability, the cycle of road accidents and fatalities will continue to claim lives and devastate families.
Now is the time for Kashmir to adopt a resolute approach to road safety. Strengthening traffic management, enforcing laws, and fostering a sense of collective responsibility are essential steps. By transforming grief into action, we can honor the lives lost and work towards safer roads for all.
Shahid Shabir Makhdoomi is a perception manager analyst and film maker
