Daijiworld Media Network - Rajouri
Rajouri, Jun 8: At least 15 passengers were injured on Monday after a minibus lost control and skidded off the road in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district, officials said.
The accident took place in the Tandwal area along the Jammu–Rajouri–Poonch national highway when the vehicle reportedly veered off the road before overturning. Authorities said the driver lost control of the steering, leading to the crash.
All injured passengers were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Road accidents are a recurring concern in the hilly districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Ramban and Udhampur, where difficult terrain and road conditions often contribute to such incidents.
Traffic officials have frequently cited factors such as poor road infrastructure, overloading, overspeeding and reckless driving as major causes behind the high number of accidents in these regions.
To curb such incidents, special enforcement squads have been deployed by the Traffic Department to monitor violations and take strict action against rash and negligent driving. Penalties include suspension of driving licences, cancellation of vehicle registration certificates and, in serious cases, imprisonment.
Authorities have also taken action in cases involving minors found driving, with measures including parental liability and cancellation of vehicle registrations.
In recent years, officials have raised concern over the growing trend of stunt biking among youth on highways and public roads. Such dangerous practices have led to increased enforcement, including fines, licence cancellations and legal action in cases where public safety is endangered.
Alongside enforcement, the Traffic Department has been conducting awareness campaigns to educate drivers about road safety and responsible driving. Petrol stations have also been directed to deny fuel to two-wheeler riders who are not wearing crash helmets, as part of broader efforts to improve compliance with traffic regulations and reduce fatalities on the roads.