The Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) has expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in traffic accidents caused by reckless, unlicensed, and underage driving in Jammu and Kashmir. In a core body meeting held today, DAK termed the issue a pressing public health crisis and urged immediate, decisive action to address these dangerous practices that claim lives and overburden healthcare systems.
DAK President, Dr. Mohd Yusuf Tak, highlighted a worrying surge in trauma cases at local hospitals, with youth disproportionately affected. He revealed that many of these accidents result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and complex fractures, leaving victims in need of prolonged medical care, rehabilitation, and emotional support. Tragically, many lives are lost, devastating families and communities.
“The consequences of reckless driving extend far beyond immediate trauma,” said Dr. Tak. “Families are shattered, and communities bear the burden of grief and suffering. Inexperienced youth, often unaware of the risks, are both victims and perpetrators of these preventable tragedies.”
Dr. Owais H. Dar, General Secretary of DAK, underscored the urgent need for strict enforcement of traffic laws. He called on law enforcement agencies to intensify road surveillance, particularly focusing on unlicensed and underage drivers, and emphasized the importance of imposing stricter penalties to deter violations.
DAK Vice President Dr. Arshed H.Trag emphasized the importance of robust driver education programs. He stressed that teaching responsible driving habits at an early age through schools and community initiatives can significantly reduce road accidents.
Senior Executive Member Dr. Amir Iqbal Lone stressed the critical role of public awareness in addressing this crisis. He advocated for targeted campaigns to educate people—especially young drivers—on the grave risks of reckless driving, emphasizing that it endangers not only the driver but everyone on the road.
Dr. Masood Rashid, another Senior Executive Member, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach. He noted that a combination of strict law enforcement, public education, and robust awareness campaigns is essential to effectively curb the menace and ensure safer roads.
DAK proposed sustained, community-driven initiatives to promote responsible driving habits. The association urged the use of diverse platforms, including social media, television, print media, and public events, to disseminate impactful road safety messages. Campaigns should share real-life stories of accident survivors and their families to highlight the devastating consequences of reckless driving. Schools and colleges must also be engaged through workshops, seminars, and road safety quizzes to instill traffic discipline in young drivers.
Dr. Ajaz Ahmad, Joint Secretary of DAK, advocated for leveraging technology to educate young drivers. “Interactive apps and tools can make road safety education engaging and impactful for the youth,” he said. “Public awareness is not just about sharing information; it’s about fostering a cultural shift where safe driving becomes a collective responsibility.”
Joint Secretary Dr. Basharat Shah called on every citizen to take responsibility for road safety and actively contribute to fostering a culture of safe driving.
“Reckless and underage driving are not just violations of the law; they are direct threats to the health and well-being of our communities,” warned Dr. Adil Wani, Joint Secretary of DAK. “The human cost of inaction is far too high. We must act swiftly to prevent further loss of life and ensure safer roads for all residents of Jammu and Kashmir.”
DAK urged all stakeholders—law enforcement agencies, educators, community leaders, and citizens—to work together to combat this growing menace. A unified effort can save countless lives and create safer roads for everyone. (KDC)
