The overturning of a Rawalpindi-bound bus from Lahore on the M2 near Kallar Kahar was a tragedy waiting to happen. Video footage of the bus just before the tragedy indicates that the driver was overspeeding with a vengeance, which was a sure formula for trouble along the twists and turns of Kallar Kahar, with its uncertain twists and turns, and ups and downs. The tragedy was probably preventable, and the initial suspicion of brake failure indicates that the checking of vehicles transporting people does not get the attention it deserves. The erratic driving by the driver indicates either that he was not properly licensed, or if he was, how corrupt is the process by which licenses are issued. It is also very much possible that he was under the influence of some banned substance. The culture among transporters that allows this, is only possible with the connivance of various government departments, and that is only possible because of the powerful transporters’ mafia, which acts more like a protection racket than a trade association.
Unfortunately, one of the needless constraints placed by transporters on drivers is the need to arrive on time. When drivers reach Kallar Kahar, they know they are near journey’s end, and if there is any delay, now is the time to make it up. Since the agreed timing of the journey includes going through Kallar Kahar relatively slowly, rushing through this dangerous patch means the time is made up. Because drivers know they can cut corners here, they sometimes make a cushion of time against any traffic delays in Lahore city traffic. It is perhaps ironic that Lahore’s city traffic is also at the mercy of similarly unlicensed and time-squeezed wagon drivers.
If such a great fuss can be raised over pilots’ licensing as was raised under the previous government, what prevents the authorities from doing the same for transport vehicle drivers? After all, whether at 600 mph over 40,000 feet in the sky, or at 60 mph at ground level, airline pilots and bus drivers are responsible for a lot of lives. The government has a responsibility to both air and ground travellers that they reach their destinations, even if there is some delay involved.
