BREAKING NEWS
The most significant changes include an increase in fines, including: A fine of Rs 5,000 for unauthorised driving (Section 180) and unlicensed driving (Section 181), and stricter penalties for modification of vehicles contrary to the rules (Section 182A) (which may lead to imprisonment or fine of up to Rs 100,000 per vehicle) for manufacturers
Protecting human lives on the roads is not only a political & social imperative, but also a moral responsibility to ensure a peaceful present and future. To understand the value of a human life we can directly refr to the hadees of our Prophet (ﷺ), He swore by Allah that the sanctity of the believer, their wealth and their blood is greater than that of the Ka'bah.
(Sanah ibn Majah 3932).
The fact that one in four road deaths worldwide occur in India should inspire us as well as authorities to take necessary steps to end this silent pandemic. Indian roads are a contradiction. They offer immense opportunities for commuting, connectivity, transport and travel, and those opportunities continue to grow. These measures go hand in hand with the country's modernization and remarkable economic development. In this context, India, with its strong helmet manufacturers, car manufacturers, big technology companies and large road investments, has a unique opportunity to build a strong road safety system, but like many other countries, they too are silently battling a deadly pandemic. For many years, an overlooked yet critical issue of rising road accidents has been quietly emerging as one of the leading causes of deaths everywhere especially in Kashmir . According to a data Kashmir has seen a significant increase in vehicle registrations since 2004. A total of 154,277 vehicles were registered between 1971 and 2004. However, between 2004 and 2021, the number of registered vehicles increased to 722,199, a rise of 468%. However, this increase in the number of vehicles has not been accompanied by a commensurate improvement in road safety measures and traffic management systems. This growth is due to factors such as increasing urbanization, improving road infrastructure and increasing demand for private vehicles. This trend includes a significant increase in the number of registrations of private cars and two-wheelers. Indian roads are a contradiction. They represent huge and growing opportunities for commuting, connectivity, transport and travel. These are going hand in hand with the country's modernisation and remarkable economic development. In this context, India, with its strong helmet manufacturers, car makers, big tech companies and large road investments, has a unique opportunity to build a strong road safety regime. But like many other countries, they too are silently contributing to a deadly pandemic.
Legal Framework
The 2019 amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act are aimed at addressing growing road safety concerns across the country, including the alarming trend in Jammu and Kashmir. It also introduces stricter penalties and regulations for various traffic violations, targeting manufacturers, dealers and vehicle owners, to ensure compliance and road safety.
The most significant changes include an increase in fines, including: A fine of Rs 5,000 for unauthorised driving (Section 180) and unlicensed driving (Section 181), and stricter penalties for modification of vehicles contrary to the rules (Section 182A) (which may lead to imprisonment or fine of up to Rs 100,000 per vehicle) for manufacturers. Dangerous driving, including reckless driving and illegal overtaking (Section 184), can now be punished with imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of Rs 5,000. Dealers and vehicle owners face stiff penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines under road tax, for providing false registration details under Section 192B. Other provisions include fines for unsafe vehicle parts (Section 182A(3)), overloading (Rs 20,000 plus Rs 2,000 per tonne) and offences relating to seat belts, emergency vehicles or noise pollution (Sections 194A to 194F). Juvenile offences (Section 199A) imposes responsibility on guardians and vehicle owners. Fines can be up to Rs 25,000, imprisonment up to three years and cancellation of vehicle registration. Authorities who fail to comply with road safety norms (Section 198A) will be liable for a fine of Rs 10 lakh. Annually increasing fines (Section 199B) ensure dynamic enforcement. Enhanced penalties under all sections will emphasise safety, responsibility and deterrence, encouraging better driving behaviour and compliance with traffic laws.
Few of the major and common causes leading to road accidents in contemporary times
Reckless Driving
One of the most alarming issues contributing to the growing number of accidents is reckless driving. Reckless driving, especially by public transport vehicles like Sumos and buses, exacerbates traffic congestion, creates hazardous road conditions, and increases the likelihood of accidents. In these instances, Sumos and buses frequently stop in the middle of roads, causing severe traffic jams. This not only disrupts the flow of traffic but also creates significant risks in emergency situations. Ambulances, which are meant to provide quick and essential medical help, are often unable to navigate through these traffic snarls, leading to life-threatening delays.
Mobile phone usage
In addition to this, the use of mobile phones while driving is another pressing issue. Despite widespread public awareness campaigns, drivers continue to use their phones behind the wheel, leading to distractions that often result in accidents. Texting, making calls, and using social media apps divert a driver’s attention from the road, creating an environment conducive to accidents.
Drunk Driving
The most important cause for alarming increase in number of road accidents is driving of vehicle in drunken state. Under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicated substances, driver lose the self-consciousness and control over the vehicle which ultimately forms the reason for road traffic accidents.
The role of traffic police and law enforcement: While traffic police are expected to enforce road discipline and curb violations. The current state of law enforcement requires a more proactive approach. Traffic police officers need to be more vigilant and responsive, especially when it comes to addressing violations such as stopping in the middle of the road, reckless driving. However, traffic police alone cannot solve the problem. It is essential for road users to understand their responsibility in maintaining road safety.
Additionally, there should be a push for stricter regulations concerning public transport vehicles. Drivers of buses, and taxis should be held accountable for their actions, with penalties for those who engage in reckless driving or block traffic. It is also important to restrict heavy vehicles from using residential areas as shortcuts, especially during peak hours. At the same time, pedestrians and cyclists must also be vigilant and responsible when using the roads. They should adhere to pedestrian safety rules, such as using crosswalks and avoiding jaywalking, and cyclists should wear helmets and follow traffic signals.
To curb this alarming trend, all stakeholders must take responsibility for educating, regulating and guiding young people.
Parent's Role
Parents must take active steps to prevent their children from engaging in harmful behaviours. Limiting access to vehicles High performance vehicles should not be in the hands of teenagers. Parents must assess their children's maturity before allowing them to drive. Encourage communication Regular discussions about the risks of reckless driving can install a sense of responsibility. Monitor activity Parents should closely monitor their children's activities, especially their driving habits and peer influence.
Traffic Authorities
A thorough overhaul of traffic management systems is needed to ensure safer roads. Stricter licensing policies: Ensure that only authorised drivers, especially those who are trained and of legal age, can obtain licenses. Strengthening Enforcement: Increase traffic personnel to monitor traffic violations and severely punish violators.
Schools and Educators Educational institutions should actively contribute to building a culture of road safety. Integrate Road Safety into the Curriculum Education on traffic rules, the dangers of reckless driving, and first aid should be part of school education. Interactive sessions Organise workshops, seminars, and practical demonstrations in cooperation with traffic authorities to guide students. Teachers should lead by example Teachers should model responsible behaviour and actively encourage their students to do the same.
Religious leaders and Khutbahs
The pulpit can act as a powerful medium to address social issues such as reckless driving. Emphasis on the sanctity of life Sermons should emphasise that putting oneself or others at risk is against Islamic teachings. Avoid luxury Religious leaders may not recommend giving expensive cars to teenagers as a status symbol. Foster responsibility Preach the importance of self-control, patience, and respect for the law.
Society and media Prevailing societal attitudes and the influence of the media must be addressed. Promote positive role models Instead of glorifying dangerous stunts, highlight stories of responsible young drivers. Social media Platforms must take responsibility for curbing the spread of videos that glorify reckless driving.
Creating Safer Roads
A collective effort Ensuring road safety requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. The government must invest in improving road infrastructure, particularly in high-traffic areas, to reduce congestion and minimize the risk of accidents.
Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens about the importance of road safety and the consequences of violating traffic rules.
In conclusion Road safety is a shared obligation that necessitates the collaboration of all road users, public agencies, and local communities, even though the traffic police may have the major role. One cannot overlook the problems of careless driving, gridlock, and the abuse of roadways for shortcuts. A concerted effort comprising rigorous law enforcement, public awareness, and individual accountability is required to address them. Together, we must establish a culture of road discipline if we have to make our roadways safer for everyone, particularly children and vulnerable pedestrians. Only then we will be able to guarantee to control the tragic mishaps in our day to day life and save precious lives.
Email:---------------- aariffarooqnajar@gmail.com
The most significant changes include an increase in fines, including: A fine of Rs 5,000 for unauthorised driving (Section 180) and unlicensed driving (Section 181), and stricter penalties for modification of vehicles contrary to the rules (Section 182A) (which may lead to imprisonment or fine of up to Rs 100,000 per vehicle) for manufacturers
Protecting human lives on the roads is not only a political & social imperative, but also a moral responsibility to ensure a peaceful present and future. To understand the value of a human life we can directly refr to the hadees of our Prophet (ﷺ), He swore by Allah that the sanctity of the believer, their wealth and their blood is greater than that of the Ka'bah.
(Sanah ibn Majah 3932).
The fact that one in four road deaths worldwide occur in India should inspire us as well as authorities to take necessary steps to end this silent pandemic. Indian roads are a contradiction. They offer immense opportunities for commuting, connectivity, transport and travel, and those opportunities continue to grow. These measures go hand in hand with the country's modernization and remarkable economic development. In this context, India, with its strong helmet manufacturers, car manufacturers, big technology companies and large road investments, has a unique opportunity to build a strong road safety system, but like many other countries, they too are silently battling a deadly pandemic. For many years, an overlooked yet critical issue of rising road accidents has been quietly emerging as one of the leading causes of deaths everywhere especially in Kashmir . According to a data Kashmir has seen a significant increase in vehicle registrations since 2004. A total of 154,277 vehicles were registered between 1971 and 2004. However, between 2004 and 2021, the number of registered vehicles increased to 722,199, a rise of 468%. However, this increase in the number of vehicles has not been accompanied by a commensurate improvement in road safety measures and traffic management systems. This growth is due to factors such as increasing urbanization, improving road infrastructure and increasing demand for private vehicles. This trend includes a significant increase in the number of registrations of private cars and two-wheelers. Indian roads are a contradiction. They represent huge and growing opportunities for commuting, connectivity, transport and travel. These are going hand in hand with the country's modernisation and remarkable economic development. In this context, India, with its strong helmet manufacturers, car makers, big tech companies and large road investments, has a unique opportunity to build a strong road safety regime. But like many other countries, they too are silently contributing to a deadly pandemic.
Legal Framework
The 2019 amendments to the Motor Vehicles Act are aimed at addressing growing road safety concerns across the country, including the alarming trend in Jammu and Kashmir. It also introduces stricter penalties and regulations for various traffic violations, targeting manufacturers, dealers and vehicle owners, to ensure compliance and road safety.
The most significant changes include an increase in fines, including: A fine of Rs 5,000 for unauthorised driving (Section 180) and unlicensed driving (Section 181), and stricter penalties for modification of vehicles contrary to the rules (Section 182A) (which may lead to imprisonment or fine of up to Rs 100,000 per vehicle) for manufacturers. Dangerous driving, including reckless driving and illegal overtaking (Section 184), can now be punished with imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of Rs 5,000. Dealers and vehicle owners face stiff penalties, including imprisonment and heavy fines under road tax, for providing false registration details under Section 192B. Other provisions include fines for unsafe vehicle parts (Section 182A(3)), overloading (Rs 20,000 plus Rs 2,000 per tonne) and offences relating to seat belts, emergency vehicles or noise pollution (Sections 194A to 194F). Juvenile offences (Section 199A) imposes responsibility on guardians and vehicle owners. Fines can be up to Rs 25,000, imprisonment up to three years and cancellation of vehicle registration. Authorities who fail to comply with road safety norms (Section 198A) will be liable for a fine of Rs 10 lakh. Annually increasing fines (Section 199B) ensure dynamic enforcement. Enhanced penalties under all sections will emphasise safety, responsibility and deterrence, encouraging better driving behaviour and compliance with traffic laws.
Few of the major and common causes leading to road accidents in contemporary times
Reckless Driving
One of the most alarming issues contributing to the growing number of accidents is reckless driving. Reckless driving, especially by public transport vehicles like Sumos and buses, exacerbates traffic congestion, creates hazardous road conditions, and increases the likelihood of accidents. In these instances, Sumos and buses frequently stop in the middle of roads, causing severe traffic jams. This not only disrupts the flow of traffic but also creates significant risks in emergency situations. Ambulances, which are meant to provide quick and essential medical help, are often unable to navigate through these traffic snarls, leading to life-threatening delays.
Mobile phone usage
In addition to this, the use of mobile phones while driving is another pressing issue. Despite widespread public awareness campaigns, drivers continue to use their phones behind the wheel, leading to distractions that often result in accidents. Texting, making calls, and using social media apps divert a driver’s attention from the road, creating an environment conducive to accidents.
Drunk Driving
The most important cause for alarming increase in number of road accidents is driving of vehicle in drunken state. Under the influence of alcohol and other intoxicated substances, driver lose the self-consciousness and control over the vehicle which ultimately forms the reason for road traffic accidents.
The role of traffic police and law enforcement: While traffic police are expected to enforce road discipline and curb violations. The current state of law enforcement requires a more proactive approach. Traffic police officers need to be more vigilant and responsive, especially when it comes to addressing violations such as stopping in the middle of the road, reckless driving. However, traffic police alone cannot solve the problem. It is essential for road users to understand their responsibility in maintaining road safety.
Additionally, there should be a push for stricter regulations concerning public transport vehicles. Drivers of buses, and taxis should be held accountable for their actions, with penalties for those who engage in reckless driving or block traffic. It is also important to restrict heavy vehicles from using residential areas as shortcuts, especially during peak hours. At the same time, pedestrians and cyclists must also be vigilant and responsible when using the roads. They should adhere to pedestrian safety rules, such as using crosswalks and avoiding jaywalking, and cyclists should wear helmets and follow traffic signals.
To curb this alarming trend, all stakeholders must take responsibility for educating, regulating and guiding young people.
Parent's Role
Parents must take active steps to prevent their children from engaging in harmful behaviours. Limiting access to vehicles High performance vehicles should not be in the hands of teenagers. Parents must assess their children's maturity before allowing them to drive. Encourage communication Regular discussions about the risks of reckless driving can install a sense of responsibility. Monitor activity Parents should closely monitor their children's activities, especially their driving habits and peer influence.
Traffic Authorities
A thorough overhaul of traffic management systems is needed to ensure safer roads. Stricter licensing policies: Ensure that only authorised drivers, especially those who are trained and of legal age, can obtain licenses. Strengthening Enforcement: Increase traffic personnel to monitor traffic violations and severely punish violators.
Schools and Educators Educational institutions should actively contribute to building a culture of road safety. Integrate Road Safety into the Curriculum Education on traffic rules, the dangers of reckless driving, and first aid should be part of school education. Interactive sessions Organise workshops, seminars, and practical demonstrations in cooperation with traffic authorities to guide students. Teachers should lead by example Teachers should model responsible behaviour and actively encourage their students to do the same.
Religious leaders and Khutbahs
The pulpit can act as a powerful medium to address social issues such as reckless driving. Emphasis on the sanctity of life Sermons should emphasise that putting oneself or others at risk is against Islamic teachings. Avoid luxury Religious leaders may not recommend giving expensive cars to teenagers as a status symbol. Foster responsibility Preach the importance of self-control, patience, and respect for the law.
Society and media Prevailing societal attitudes and the influence of the media must be addressed. Promote positive role models Instead of glorifying dangerous stunts, highlight stories of responsible young drivers. Social media Platforms must take responsibility for curbing the spread of videos that glorify reckless driving.
Creating Safer Roads
A collective effort Ensuring road safety requires a collective effort from all stakeholders. The government must invest in improving road infrastructure, particularly in high-traffic areas, to reduce congestion and minimize the risk of accidents.
Public awareness campaigns should be launched to educate citizens about the importance of road safety and the consequences of violating traffic rules.
In conclusion Road safety is a shared obligation that necessitates the collaboration of all road users, public agencies, and local communities, even though the traffic police may have the major role. One cannot overlook the problems of careless driving, gridlock, and the abuse of roadways for shortcuts. A concerted effort comprising rigorous law enforcement, public awareness, and individual accountability is required to address them. Together, we must establish a culture of road discipline if we have to make our roadways safer for everyone, particularly children and vulnerable pedestrians. Only then we will be able to guarantee to control the tragic mishaps in our day to day life and save precious lives.
Email:---------------- aariffarooqnajar@gmail.com
© Copyright 2023 brighterkashmir.com All Rights Reserved. Quantum Technologies