Collective Responsibility

A tragic road mishap at Tengpora bypass last week claimed the lives of two minors, while another accident at Lawaypora resulted in the death of a 15-year-old boy. Such cases are not isolated but symptomatic of a broader issue: the prevalence of minors operating vehicles without licenses or training. After the fatal road accidents, many started blaming the authorities for not implementing strict measures to tackle the menace of underage driving. At the same time, officials termed it a ‘societal failure’. Such incidents underscore the need for stricter road safety measures, heightened parental accountability and need of joint efforts towards responsible behavior. These accidents highlight a failure not only of enforcement but also of societal vigilance and parental supervision. Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic Srinagar, Muzaffar Shah, has of late been vocal about the growing menace of underage driving. He stated that addressing this problem requires more than legal action—it necessitates a societal shift. Parents, schools, and communities must take collective responsibility to ensure the safety of young lives and the broader public. In response to these tragic events, the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir has recommended invoking Section 199A of the Motor Vehicles Act, which prescribes up to three years of imprisonment for parents or guardians who allow minors to drive. The RTO also pointed to gaps in parenting and schooling, which are crucial in shaping responsible behavior. While legal enforcement is essential, the root causes of such violations often lie in a lack of awareness and education about road safety norms. Schools, as primary institutions of learning, can play a positive role by integrating road safety education into their curricula. Through workshops, campaigns and interactive sessions, schools can teach children the importance of adhering to traffic rules. On the contrary, it is common to see quite a few minors riding two wheelers and at times driving cars to school. Parents, on the other hand, must exercise vigilance and set clear boundaries regarding access to vehicles. Allowing minors to drive not only puts their lives at risk but also endangers others on the road. Parents can curb the likelihood of such incidents by setting strict rules. Community organizations and local authorities can also contribute by conducting awareness drives and workshops. These initiatives can educate families about the legal and moral implications of underage driving. While societal and educational interventions are necessary, strict enforcement remains a cornerstone of road safety. The ongoing campaign by the traffic police, involving vehicle seizures and on-the-spot actions, is a step in the right direction. However, enforcement must be consistent and backed by technological advancements like surveillance systems to deter violations effectively. Ensuring road safety is not just the responsibility of law enforcement agencies but of every individual in society. Parents, schools and community leaders must work together to instill a culture of responsibility and respect for laws. The loss of young lives is a tragedy that no society should endure and we all need to take lessons from the unfortunate incidents.