KATHUA, OCTOBER 07: SSP Traffic Rural Jammu Farooq Qaiser today visited Billawar and Basohli to review traffic arrangements and the functioning of Traffic Police personnel deployed in the areas. He interacted with Traffic Police officers and personnel, reviewed local traffic and manpower-related issues and issued necessary directions. He also emphasized that enforcement should be carried out with courtesy, public sensitivity and a spirit of service.

Additionally, the SSP Traffic convened a comprehensive Road Safety Awareness Programme at Government Higher Secondary School, Bhaddu, Zone Billawar, which was attended by around 400 students and 70 teaching staff members.

Addressing the students, the SSP Traffic highlighted the road accident scenario in Rajouri, Poonch, Samba and Kathua districts. He informed that 699 accidents were recorded during January-July 2026, resulting in 88 deaths and 1,001 injuries. Significantly, 309 accidents (44%) involved two-wheelers, while 39 of the 88 fatalities (44%) were among two-wheeler riders/pillions. Around 27% of the victims were below 25 years of age.

Emphasizing the vulnerability of young two-wheeler users, the SSP Traffic stressed the importance of using helmets by riders and pillions, responsible driving and avoiding rash driving, stunts and mobile-phone use while driving. He urged students to become “Road Safety Ambassadors” and carry the message of safe driving to their families and communities.

The students were also sensitized about the PM RAHAT Scheme-2026, Hit and Run Motor Accidents Compensation Scheme-2022, J&K Road Accident Victims Fund Rules-2022 and the Good Samaritan provisions, encouraging citizens to assist accident victims during the crucial golden hour without fear of legal consequences.

SSP Traffic was accompanied by Addl. SP Operations Billawar Prithpal Singh, while the programme was attended by Principal Mohinder Singh, teaching staff, students and other dignitaries.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by the School Principal. The visit and awareness initiative reaffirmed Traffic Police Rural Jammu’s commitment to combining enforcement with awareness, public engagement and youth participation for safer roads.