By Chasfeeda Shah
Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has seen a troubling rise in road accidents in recent years. These tragic incidents are not only claiming lives but also causing lasting trauma to families and communities. The responsibility for curbing this growing problem lies not just with the authorities but with society at large, particularly parents, who play a pivotal role in shaping the behavior of future drivers.
Parents in Kashmir, as in the rest of the world, are the first educators of their children. From a young age, children absorb lessons on safety, discipline, and responsibility. In a region where driving is considered a rite of passage, parents must instill safe driving habits and ensure their children understand the serious consequences of recklessness behind the wheel. In addition to providing practical training, parents should educate their children on road safety principles, including obeying traffic laws, respecting pedestrians, and avoiding distractions such as mobile phones while driving. In the face of rising youth fatalities on the roads, parental guidance is essential in fostering a culture of responsibility.
Beyond the home, society plays an integral role in influencing attitudes towards road safety. In Kashmir, like many places, there is often a tendency to ignore traffic rules and prioritize convenience over caution. A disregard for speed limits, helmet laws, and seatbelt usage has become all too common. However, the solution lies in changing societal attitudes through education, awareness campaigns, and a collective commitment to safety. Media, local organizations, and educational institutions must come together to promote road safety through regular campaigns that target various age groups, emphasizing the importance of adhering to traffic rules. Public service announcements and road safety initiatives should be tailored to address the specific risks prevalent in the region, such as driving in challenging weather conditions and mountainous terrain.
The role of authorities cannot be understated in this regard. Traffic laws and regulations are meaningless without enforcement. The authorities must take a stronger stance on penalizing offenders, imposing stricter fines, and ensuring that those who break the rules are held accountable. However, this must be coupled with infrastructural improvements. Inadequate roads, poorly lit areas, and lack of proper signage contribute to the danger on Kashmir’s roads. Investments in better road infrastructure, including clear signages and improved lighting, will not only make driving safer but also provide drivers with the confidence to follow the rules.
While authorities, parents, and society all share responsibility, real change will come from a collaborative effort. Parents must raise their children to be conscientious drivers; society must adopt and encourage safer driving behaviors, and the authorities must ensure the laws are enforced and that the infrastructure supports safe travel. Only then will Kashmir’s roads become a place where safety takes precedence over speed, and lives are preserved over convenience.
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