Suhail Khan
Srinagar, Nov 20: Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Traffic (Rural Kashmir), Ravinderpal Singh, warned on Wednesday that ongoing efforts are aimed at saving human lives.
In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Despatch, the SSP Traffic stated that the traffic department, along with the police, has launched initiatives focused on protecting lives, especially in light of an alarming increase in accidents and fatalities. A majority of these fatalities involve teenagers driving both four-wheelers and two-wheelers.
He said that reckless driving and negligence among teenagers are significant contributing factors to these incidents. “Teenagers, in their adolescent age, are often passionate and seek thrills, which leads them to drive their vehicles in an uncontrolled manner,” he said.
SSP Singh underscored that parents bear the greatest responsibility for their children’s behavior behind the wheel.
The SSP emphasized the need for parents to pay close attention to their children’s activities. He urged them to provide quality education and facilities and to guide their children toward a bright and successful future. Parents must also be vigilant about their children’s social circles and daily activities, as it is their duty to monitor their behavior.
He further stated that parents should not permit their underage children to drive four-wheelers or two-wheelers. If any teenager is caught driving, the parents could face a fine of approximately ₹25,000 and potential imprisonment for up to three years.
In light of the tragic Tengpora accident, the Traffic Department in Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir issued a heartfelt reminder to parents about the importance of safeguarding their children. The department stressed that children are the future of society and urged parents to prioritize their well-being to ensure a safer future.
Earlier this week, SSP Traffic Srinagar Muzaffar Ahmad Shah told Kashmir Despatch that the department has intensified efforts to clamp down on underage driving. While other traffic violations will also be addressed, he emphasized that parents and society must take greater responsibility by not allowing minors access to two-wheelers or four-wheelers. He pointed out that once children are outside, parents often lose control over their behavior.
He stated, “At our level, we will always be strict against traffic violators; however, until parents act responsibly, we cannot protect the future of our children. These are our own children, and parents need to take this matter seriously.”
In light of the recent Thar-related accident that has deeply shaken the community, the Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) commended the collaborative efforts of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries, police, traffic police, and civil administration in combating the growing issue of traffic violations.
In a statement issued to Kashmir Despatch, PSAJK President G. N. Var highlighted the critical role schools play in shaping student behavior and vowed to leverage this influence to create a safer society. The Association has unveiled a series of proactive measures aimed at promoting road safety.
He announced that PSAJK would organize traffic safety workshops in schools to educate students about the dangers of underage driving, speeding, and reckless behavior. Traffic police officers and road safety advocates will be invited to address students and discuss the real-life consequences of traffic violations.
Meanwhile, in the wake of the recent tragic road accident on the Tengpora Bemina highway, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat on Wednesday chaired a meeting with members of Civil society, representatives of Coaching Centres and Private Schools.
The Deputy Commissioner expressed deep concern over the rising instances of road accidents involving juveniles and emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to address the underlying causes.
On the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for strict enforcement of traffic laws and awareness campaigns to prevent such incidents. He outlined a multi-pronged strategy to tackle these issues by launching a massive awareness campaign to educate students and parents about their role to prevent such incidents. He also emphasised on strict enforcement of Traffic rules to curb underage driving, including enhanced monitoring and penalties.
The DC further stressed Parent-Teacher collaboration, regular interactions between parents, teachers, and coaching centre representatives to ensure that students receive consistent guidance both at home and in educational settings.
In addition, the DC emphasized the need for formation of a dedicated task force committee comprising representatives from the Administration, Educational Institutions, coaching centres and Civil society to oversee the implementation of safety and awareness initiatives.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
