Rash driving and dangerous stunt performances by youngsters have become an alarming trend in recent years. This reckless behaviour is increasingly visible on roads, putting not only the lives of these youngsters at risk but also endangering the safety of other commuters. Hardly a day passes without reports of fatal accidents caused by rash driving appearing across social media platforms.
According to some media reports in 2025 the road-accidents in J&K “claim 2–3 lives daily.” irresponsible acts. While all categories of vehicles—four-wheelers, three-wheelers, and two-wheelers—are involved in traffic violations, it is the two-wheeler riders, especially teenagers and young adults, who contribute most significantly to this rising danger. Shockingly, nearly 90% of these riders are underage, driving vehicles without any legal eligibility.
Even among those who have reached the legal age to obtain a driving licence, many are found riding without a valid licence, putting their lives at serious risk. Experts believe that the role of parents cannot be overlooked. Driven by affection or social pressure, many parents hand over motorbikes to their underage children, unknowingly pushing them towards possible tragedy. Such parents must reflect on their actions and correct their behaviour before irreversible loss occurs.
There is an urgent need for mass counselling and awareness initiatives led by the Department of Road Transport. Parents and youngsters must be informed that rash driving, stunt performances, and driving without a licence are punishable offences under the Motor Vehicles Act. Anyone involved—directly or indirectly—can face strict legal consequences.
To curb this growing menace, the Road Transport Department should conduct awareness drives at various levels of society, including Panchayats, Anganwadi centres, religious institutions, schools, and colleges. Widespread campaigns through electronic and print media can also play a vital role in educating the public.
Additionally, the traffic police must adopt a zero-tolerance policy, ensuring immediate action against those violating traffic rules. Strict enforcement, combined with community awareness, can go a long way in preventing needless accidents and saving precious lives.
The writer is a Teacher. zahidmukhtar268@gmail.com
