- Demands Road safety reforms and relocation of alcohol shop following drunk driving tragedy
KISHTWAR: Former J&K Minister Ghulam Mohammad Saroori today expressed profound grief and frustration over the tragic accident on the Bhandarkote-Dacchan road near Dangduru. The incident, caused by a drunk driver, claimed two lives and left several others injured. Saroori strongly criticized the negligence of all stakeholders involved in ensuring public safety, calling for immediate corrective measures.
In his statement, Saroori emphasized the grave consequences of drunk driving and the lack of accountability among authorities. “The loss of two precious lives in this accident is not just a personal tragedy for the families involved but a stark reminder of how systemic negligence can lead to irreversible consequences. The drunk driver’s reckless actions, compounded by the failure of authorities to regulate such behavior, have caused immeasurable pain,” he said.
Saroori also highlighted the dangerous conditions of the Bhandarkote-Dacchan road and the absence of effective safety measures. He pointed out that the treacherous terrain requires strict oversight and regulation, particularly for light vehicles that are more prone to accidents. “The administration must take immediate steps to improve road conditions, install safety barriers, and restrict light vehicles from accessing hazardous routes without proper monitoring,” he stated.
The former minister also took aim at the alcohol shop located in Palmar, arguing that its presence has contributed to the rise in drunk driving incidents. He demanded its immediate relocation to a safer and less accessible area. “The proximity of this alcohol shop to residential and sensitive areas is a matter of serious concern. It not only encourages irresponsible behavior but also puts countless lives at risk,” Saroori remarked.
He further criticized the lack of enforcement against drunk driving, urging the authorities to adopt stricter measures. Saroori stated, “Drunk driving remains a persistent issue due to weak enforcement and lack of deterrence. The administration must act decisively to ensure that such reckless behavior is punished and deterred in the future.”
Expressing his condolences, Saroori prayed for the deceased and extended his support to the grieving families. He also wished a speedy recovery for the injured and called for immediate attention to public safety reforms to prevent such incidents from recurring. “This tragedy is a wake-up call for everyone involved in ensuring public safety. The time for negligence is over; it is time to act,” he concluded.
