On Sunday, June 9, 2024, a van plunged from a mountain road into the Neelam River in Pakistan-administered Kashmir’s Neelam Valley, resulting in the death of 16 individuals, predominantly children. Four people managed to escape by leaping out of the van before it went underwater.
The Pakistani army, local residents, and authorities are persistently searching for the remaining victims. A local police spokesperson noted, “Given the river’s conditions and the time elapsed, the chances of survival are very slim.”
Kashmir, a territory split between India and Pakistan, is famous for its scenic beauty but notorious for its treacherous roads. In Pakistan, road accidents are a common occurrence, often attributable to substandard road infrastructure and disregard for traffic regulations. A disaster management authority official highlighted, “This is a tragic reminder of the need for improved road safety measures.”
The official also pointed out the specific dangers of the Neelam Valley. “Drivers frequently take unnecessary risks, and the roads are not maintained to a safe standard,” he added.
This fatal accident is not an isolated event. Just last month, a similar tragedy in the southwestern Baluchistan province left 28 dead and 20 injured when a speeding passenger bus veered into a rocky ravine. These repeated accidents highlight the pressing need for enhanced road safety across the country.
Although the government has committed to addressing these issues, progress has been sluggish. “Road safety must become a priority to prevent further tragedies,” stressed an NGO spokesperson in the region.
This tragic event has also brought to light the broader issue of infrastructure development in Pakistan’s remote regions. “Investment in infrastructure is crucial, not just for economic development but for the safety of our citizens,” stated a regional development expert. “This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for the authorities.”
In spite of the dire circumstances, the affected community’s resilience shines through. “We will rebuild and move forward,” declared a local leader. “But we will never forget those who lost their lives.”