The Kashmir Dialogues
CNS
Srinagar, Apr 5 : The Kashmir Valley is witnessing a disturbing rise in road accidents, with a growing number of cases linked to drivers operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol.
Over the past few days alone, at least 35 passengers have sustained injuries in various road mishaps, many of which involved drivers found to be in an inebriated state, officials and local reports have confirmed.
Sources in the traffic department said that several of these accidents occurred when vehicles rammed into road dividers or collided with other vehicles, with preliminary investigations revealing that the drivers had consumed alcohol prior to getting behind the wheel.
In many cases, they were found either engaging in stunt driving or driving rashly, disregarding traffic rules and public safety.
According to eyewitness accounts, the behavior of such drivers poses a direct threat not just to passengers but to pedestrians and other motorists.
We have seen cars speeding down narrow roads, drivers performing dangerous stunts, and even racing through busy intersections.
When caught, most of them turn out to be drunk,” said a local resident from Baramulla.
An official from the Regional Transport Office (RTO) said, “There is a growing concern over drunk driving.
These are not just traffic violations—they are criminal acts that endanger lives.”
Among the recent cases, a mini-bus carrying passengers in Budgam veered off the road and hit a wall, injuring several commuters.
In South Kashmir, a car skidded off the road after hitting a divider, and the driver was later found intoxicated.
Similar cases have been reported from other districts.
These repeated incidents have sparked widespread public concern.
Locals are now calling on the traffic police and civil administration to act decisively.
It’s not enough to issue challans or warnings.
Licenses of drunk drivers must be cancelled immediately, and strict legal action should follow,” said a community leader from Sopore.
Citizens have urged authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward drunk driving, calling for increased checkpoints, random breathalyzer tests, and awareness drives to educate the public on the dangers of alcohol-impaired driving.
The law exists, but enforcement is weak. Unless authorities take strong action, these accidents will continue,” said a lawyer from Srinagar, adding that under the Motor Vehicles Act, driving under the influence can lead to imprisonment, fines, and cancellation of licenses.
A senior traffic police officer said, “We are aware of the rise in such incidents and are stepping up enforcement.
Special teams will be deployed for night patrols and random checks, especially in accident-prone areas.”
He added that the department is also working with local police to track repeat offenders and ensure they are dealt with firmly under the law.
Sheikh Sameer
Rameez Makdoomi
Sheikh Mudasir