Mirpur, AJK: A passenger bus traveling from Mirpur to Jhelum via Chichian plunged into a deep ravine at Kas Kalyal Ritraan, leaving six passengers injured. The incident highlights the deteriorating road infrastructure in the Azad Jammu Kashmir (Pakistan-administered Kashmir), which has led to a surge in frequent accidents, endangering public safety.
Upon receiving the report, police and rescue teams quickly reached the scene and transported the injured to the District Headquarters Hospital. The injured passengers have been identified as Mah Noor, Malaika, Naseem Akhtar, Jahangir, Waheed, and Muhammad Ayub. According to hospital authorities, all victims are out of danger and receiving medical care.
Government Officials Visit Hospital
In response to the accident, Deputy Commissioner Yasir Riaz, Medical Superintendent Dr. Amir Aziz, Additional SP Amir Shehzad Nawabi, Mayor Municipal Corporation Ch. Usman Ali Khalid, Assistant Commissioner Raja Zahid Hussain, and DSP Ch. Ansar Ali visited the hospital. DC Yasir Riaz personally inquired about the injured and directed the hospital administration to ensure the best possible medical care.
Dr. Amir Aziz, MS of the hospital, confirmed that all necessary medical tests are being conducted, and a team of specialist doctors has been deployed for treatment.
Rising Road Accidents: A Matter of Serious Concern
The incident adds to the growing number of road accidents in Azad Kashmir, which have become an almost daily occurrence due to poorly maintained roads, lack of safety measures, and weak enforcement of traffic regulations. The Mirpur-Jhelum route, in particular, has been witnessing frequent accidents, causing loss of lives and injuries.
Citizens and transporters have repeatedly urged the authorities to take immediate action to improve the road infrastructure and implement strict traffic safety protocols. Without urgent intervention, the lives of thousands of commuters remain at constant risk, making road travel in AJK increasingly dangerous.
International observers and human rights organizations have also raised concerns over the lack of investment in infrastructure development, which is impacting public safety and mobility. If left unaddressed, the deteriorating transport system could further hinder the region’s economic growth and connectivity.
Local residents are now demanding that the AJK government prioritize road maintenance, enforce traffic safety laws, and implement modern infrastructure reforms to prevent further tragedies.