By: MooL Raj
The Jammu-Srinagar highway, the lifeline of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, has been witnessing recurring incidents of shooting stones and landslides, causing massive disruptions in traffic movement and leading to several unfortunate deaths. The recent incidents have once again brought to the fore the negligence of the authorities and the lack of attention towards the safety of the people.
The shooting stones and landslides on the Jammu-Srinagar highway have been a perennial problem, particularly during the monsoon season when the region receives heavy rainfall. However, despite knowing the risks involved, the authorities have failed to take necessary measures to mitigate the hazards. This lack of preparedness and planning has resulted in several fatal incidents, causing immense loss of life and property.
The recent incident on the Jammu-Srinagar highway, in which several people lost their lives due to shooting stones and landslides, is a grim reminder of the negligence of the authorities. The incident has not only caused a massive disruption in traffic movement but has also exposed the inadequacy of the rescue and relief efforts. The slow response of the authorities in providing immediate medical assistance and rescue operations has added to the misery of the affected people.
In a recent tragic incident, just recently, two persons were killed as a large-sized shooting stone hit a truck they were travelling in, near Digdolealong Jammu-Srinagar highway.
It is high time that the government takes cognizance of the gravity of the situation and takes necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future. The safety of the people should be the topmost priority of the authorities. The government should conduct a comprehensive study of the terrain and geology of the region and identify the vulnerable areas that are prone to landslides and shooting stones. It should also take necessary measures to stabilize the slopes and ensure proper drainage systems to prevent soil erosion.
The authorities should also invest in the latest technologies and equipment to monitor the movement of rocks and boulders on the highway. The installation of advanced warning systems, sirens and real-time monitoring devices would help alert the authorities and the public about the potential risks and enable them to take necessary precautions.
Moreover, the government should also focus on the rehabilitation of the affected people and provide them with necessary support and assistance. The families of the deceased should be compensated adequately, and the injured should receive proper medical treatment and rehabilitation facilities in quick time.
The recurring incidents of shooting stones and landslides on the Jammu-Srinagar highway have caused immense loss of life and property and have exposed the negligence of the authorities. The government should take immediate steps to prevent such incidents in the future by investing in the latest technologies and equipment, conducting a comprehensive study of the terrain and geology of the region, and providing necessary support and assistance to the affected people. The safety of the people should be the topmost priority of the authorities, and they should take all necessary measures to ensure their well-being.
