Recently, I witnessed a horrific hit-and-run accident after a speeding truck hit a young motorcyclist and drove off. Due to the absence of CCTV cameras and traffic police, the truck driver will per usual go scot-free. In the last few months, across Rawalpindi, several fatal accidents have been reported daily. The usual suspects are teenagers and truck drivers who are notorious for reckless driving whilst being under the influence of substances.
The inaction of authorities has further emboldened the reckless drivers who unabashedly speed and break traffic laws. Often drivers speed in residential areas, which is extremely dangerous as children are playing on the streets. At times, drivers race cars and lose control of their vehicles ramming into trees or other vehicles on the roads causing severe damage. Large trucks/containers carrying heavy items overtake other vehicles, which confuses other drivers and disrupts traffic.
The complete disregard for the lives of other drivers and passengers, pedestrians, and stray animals is deplorable. The traffic police can play a crucial role by acting against reckless drivers and investigating cases reported by the people. Drivers without licenses should be punished if they are caught driving or speeding. Also, speed limits should be labelled on roads across the city and CCTV cameras must be installed as it may encourage drivers to remain vigilant.
SYEDA AIMEN
RAWALPINDI
