Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Nov 15: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today expressed grave concern over the alarming rise in road traffic accidents involving minors across Kashmir, urging the authorities to ensure strict action for compliance.
Speaking at the historic Jamia Masjid on the eve of Friday congregation, he expressed deep sorrow, saying, “Each day, we hear about traffic accidents claiming precious lives. Just yesterday, two young boys tragically lost their lives and third is battling for his life.”
He urged parents to exercise caution when providing young individuals with vehicles, particularly motorcycles and cars, which, he said, they often use recklessly at high speeds.
“Parents must be wary of granting their children access to bikes and cars that they speed on, endangering their own lives and others,” he said.
Mirwaiz also criticized the Government’s lack of seriousness in addressing the growing traffic issue leading to such incidents.
He highlighted that many, particularly young people, ride motorcycles and scooters at fast speeds and without helmets, risking severe injuries or fatalities.
He called on authorities to take stringent measures to ensure compliance with traffic regulations and to promote road safety awareness.
Meanwhile, the Mirwaiz also felicitated the Sikh community on their religious festival of Gurpurab, stating, “Our Sikh brethren have stood shoulder to shoulder with the Muslim community through thick and thin, even during the most challenging times, including the tragic Chattisinghpora incident.
“Despite such ordeals, they chose to remain steadfast in their bond with us,” he said.
Mirwaiz expressed hope that the ties between the communities would continue to grow. “The bond between the two communities is rooted in mutual respect and love for the land. We must ensure it flourishes further.”