Liaqat Bashir Farooqui
The Ministry of Transport has a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the roads and vehicles that operate on them. However, recent reports suggest that the ministry is neglecting this responsibility by issuing fitness certificates to very old and unfit vehicles, in exchange for heavy bribes. This negligence has resulted in numerous severe road accidents in AJK, causing many casualties. The fitness certificate is a document that certifies that a vehicle is roadworthy and safe to operate. The certificate is issued by the government after a thorough inspection of the vehicle, which includes testing its engine, brakes, and other critical components. However, it appears that corrupt officials in the Ministry of Transport are overlooking these safety checks and issuing certificates to vehicles that are not fit for the road. As a result, these unfit vehicles pose a significant risk to the safety of both drivers and passengers. The probability of an accident is significantly higher for such vehicles, especially on steep and winding roads that are common in AJK. Unfortunately, due to this negligence, we have witnessed a surge in the number of road accidents in the region, which have led to numerous deaths and injuries. It is critical that the Ministry of Transport takes immediate action to address this issue and hold those responsible for this negligence accountable. This can be achieved by conducting thorough investigations and enforcing stricter regulations and penalties for corrupt officials. Moreover, the government must also invest in improving the infrastructure and facilities for testing and issuing fitness certificates, to ensure that all vehicles on the road are safe to operate. In conclusion, the negligence of the Ministry of Transport in issuing fitness certificates to very old and unfit vehicles is a severe issue that demands immediate attention. The government must take decisive action to address this problem, and ensure that the safety of the public is not compromised due to corruption and bribery. The beautiful Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) region is known for its stunning landscapes and scenic beauty. However, this paradise has been marred by a series of heart-wrenching accidents due to unfit vehicles. These accidents have claimed many precious lives and caused numerous injuries, leaving a trail of devastation and grief. In one of the most tragic incidents, a vehicle in Neelum Valley, AJK, lost control due to overloading and being unfit, resulting in the death of 12 people. The incident shook the entire region and reminded us of the importance of ensuring road safety. However, despite the tragedy, it seems that lessons have not been learned, as another cruel accident occurred just yesterday in which four people lost their lives. The AJK government must take immediate steps to minimize these dangerous issues. They should ensure that all vehicles are regularly maintained and inspected, and that overloading is strictly prohibited. Moreover, the government should also educate drivers and passengers about the importance of road safety and the risks associated with traveling in unfit vehicles. It is essential to take concrete measures to prevent such accidents in the future. The government must enforce strict laws and penalties for those who violate the safety regulations. Additionally, they should establish emergency services along the major highways to ensure that medical assistance is provided immediately in the event of an accident. In conclusion, it is high time that the AJK government took this issue seriously and implemented measures to prevent such heart-wrenching accidents. It is the responsibility of everyone to ensure road safety, and we must all work together to make the roads of AJK safe for everyone