Tangmarg, Sept 27, KNT: CCTV footage has confirmed that the school bus which met with an accident near Kunzar-Tangmarg earlier this week was being driven at an excessively high speed, raising fresh concerns over the safety of school transport in the region. Authorities say the driver’s negligence was a primary factor in the mishap, which led to the death of several animals and narrowly avoided a larger human tragedy.
According to preliminary investigations, the footage clearly captured the bus swerving uncontrollably while attempting to navigate a turn on the busy road. Police officials noted that the driver, instead of exercising caution, continued at high speed until he lost control. “The CCTV evidence leaves no doubt that the accident was caused due to reckless driving,” a police officer involved in the probe said.
While no children lost their lives, the incident has sparked outrage among locals who believe that a disaster was averted only by chance. The accident left several animals dead and caused panic among families whose children travel daily on similar routes. “It is terrifying to imagine what could have happened if the bus had overturned. The authorities must ensure stricter checks on school buses,” said Ghulam Nabi, a parent from Tangmarg.
Police have registered a formal case against the driver, who is currently under investigation. Officials said that the driver will face strict legal action for endangering lives and violating traffic norms.
Families of the schoolchildren have strongly appealed to bus operators and drivers to exercise responsibility. “Our children are not safe if drivers continue to behave so carelessly. Speeding on routes used by school buses is a recipe for disaster,” said another parent. [KNT]
