By Hameed Khan
The Karakoram Highway (KKH) connects Pakistan and China and serves as a vital route for trade and commerce. However, this road has also seen a high number of traffic accidents over the years. Only on Tuesday, a passenger bus plunged into the river of Kohistan district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in loss of precious 30 persons on board.
Despite the efforts of the government to improve road safety, accidents continue to occur, resulting in loss of life and property. This article aims to provide an overview of the situation and highlight the major factors contributing to the accidents on the KKH.
In recent years, there have been several incidents of passenger buses falling off the road and resulting in fatalities. According to data available until 2021, there were over 200 road accidents on the KKH, resulting in over 400 casualties. These accidents have been attributed to a range of factors, including poor road infrastructure, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and the poor condition of vehicles and drivers.
One of the main factors contributing to the accidents on the KKH is the road infrastructure itself. The road is often in a state of disrepair, with potholes, cracks, and other hazards that pose a risk to drivers. The government has made efforts to improve the road infrastructure, but more needs to be done to ensure that it is safe for all travelers.
Related Information: Karakoram Highway
Another major factor contributing to the accidents on the KKH is the inadequate enforcement of traffic laws. Many drivers on the KKH are not qualified, and the road is often plagued by reckless and dangerous driving. The government must work with relevant agencies to enforce traffic laws and ensure that all drivers on the KKH comply with them. This includes regular checks on the fitness of vehicles and the qualifications of drivers, which will help to reduce the risk of accidents and make the KKH a safer road for everyone.
In addition to these factors, the poor condition of vehicles and drivers also contributes to the high number of accidents on the KKH. Many drivers on the KKH are known to drive while under the influence of drugs, and there have been instances of drivers falling asleep at the wheel. The government must take steps to ensure that all vehicles and drivers on the KKH are in good condition and fit to travel the road.
KKH has seen a high number of traffic accidents over the years, resulting in loss of life and property. The government and relevant agencies must work together to address the major factors contributing to the accidents, including poor road infrastructure, inadequate enforcement of traffic laws, and the poor condition of vehicles and drivers. By taking concrete steps to improve road safety, the KKH can become a safer place for all travelers.
The author, a student of M.Phil., belongs to Gilgit-Baltistan region
