Srinagar, Feb 12, : District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, in collaboration with the Special Mobile Magistrate Traffic Srinagar & Additional Spl. Mobile Magistrate Traffic, Srinagar and Kashmir Road Safety Foundation, conducted a special awareness drive in District Srinagar to sensitize the general public about the objectives and implementation of the J&K Road Safety Policy 2025.
The programme aimed at educating commuters, drivers, pedestrians, transport operators, and shopkeepers about traffic discipline, safe driving practices, and the legal consequences of traffic violations.
Informational material was distributed and on-the-spot interactions were held to reinforce the importance of responsible road usage.
The programme was graced by the august presence of Mr. Haq Nawaz Zargar, Chairman District Legal Services Authority (Principal District & Sessions Judge) Srinagar.
The drive was marked by the presence of Mr. Shabir Ahmad Malik, Spl. Mobile Magistrate Traffic, Srinagar, Ms. Mufti Nahida, Additional Spl. Mobile Magistrate Traffic, Srinagar, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IPS) SSP Traffic Srinagar, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Bhat, DySp Lalchowk Srinagar along with officials of District Legal Services Authority Srinagar, representatives of the NGO, members of the legal fraternity, and the local public.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Haq Nawaz Zargar, Chairman District Legal Services Authority (Principal District & Sessions Judge) Srinagar, emphasized that the J&K Road Safety Policy 2025 lays special focus on minimizing road accident fatalities through stricter enforcement of traffic laws, mandatory use of helmets and seat belts, prevention of over-speeding and drunken driving, scientific road engineering measures, identification and rectification of accident-prone zones, and strengthening of emergency medical response systems. He underscored that road safety is a collective responsibility and called upon citizens to actively cooperate with enforcement agencies in fostering a culture of discipline and safety on roads.
During his interaction with the media, Mr. Shabir Ahmad Malik, Special Mobile Magistrate Traffic, Kashmir highlighted that legal awareness is a powerful instrument in preventing road accidents and promoting responsible civic behaviour. He observed that ignorance of traffic laws often results in avoidable mishaps and stressed the necessity of sustained public outreach programmes to instill accountability among drivers and pedestrians alike.
He further reiterated the pivotal role of the Legal Services Authority in spreading awareness about citizens’ rights and duties under the law.
Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Bhat (IPS), SSP Traffic City, Srinagar, also interacted with the Media Persons and stated that maximum number of cases involving road accidents are because of substance abuse.
During the drive Ms. Mufti Nahida, Additional Spl. Mobile Magistrate Traffic, Srinagar also interacted extensively with locals and drivers.
In her concluding remarks Secretary District Legal Services Authority, Srinagar, Ms. Tabassum Qadir Parray, reiterated the commitment of District Legal Services Authority Srinagar, in making roads safer for commuters. She patiently heard the grievances of the commercial vehicle drivers and assured them necessary measure would be taken to ensure smoother traffic management and enhanced road safety in the district.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation of officials from Traffic Department, volunteers, and drivers reflecting a shared commitment towards making Srinagar’s roads safer for all.(CNS)
