High-Level Meeting on Urban Development in Srinagar,Commissioner SMC Dr. Owais Ahmed Reviews Progress of Projects

Dr. Owais Ahmed

In a significant step towards enhancing urban development in Srinagar, Commissioner SMC Dr. Owais Ahmed chaired a high-level review meeting today to evaluate the progress of various projects undertaken by the SMC and Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL).

The meeting was attended by the senior officials from both organizations, who provided comprehensive updates on their respective projects, addressing timelines, challenges, and achievements.

Dr. Owais emphasized the importance of these initiatives in improving urban infrastructure and the overall quality of life for Srinagar’s residents.

Key projects discussed included road improvements, advancements in water management, civil and electrical works, enhancements in waste management systems, and innovative smart city initiatives designed to integrate technology into public services.

“Timely execution is crucial for the success of our ongoing projects,” Dr. Owais remarked. “Our vision is to ensure sustainable development in Srinagar, with measurable benefits reaching every citizen. I encourage all teams to identify obstacles and collaborate on effective solutions.”

The Commissioner also stressed the need for adopting innovative strategies and global best practices to improve project efficiency and delivery. He underscored the importance of regular follow-ups and detailed progress reports to maintain accountability and transparency in project management.

As the meeting concluded, Dr. Owais expressed confidence that with coordinated and focused efforts, the SMC and SSCL could drive transformative changes, positioning Srinagar as a model urban center.

December 2024 Auto Sales: Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, and Mahindra Post Strong Growth in Domestic and Export Markets

Maruti Suzuk

In December 2024, Maruti Suzuki India sold a total of 178,248 car units, which is about 30 per cent higher than a year ago period.

Total sales in the month include domestic sales of 132,523 units, sales to other original equipment manufacturers (OEM) of 8,306 units and the highest-ever monthly exports of 37,419 units, the automaker said in a statement Wednesday.

Car exports during the months too were about 30 per cent higher year-on-year.

So far in the current financial year, April-December, the total sales, domestic and exports combined, rose 5 per cent to 1.629 million units. In the year-ago April-December period, the total sales were at 1.551 million units.

Segment-wise, mini plus compact car sales rose from 48,298 units to 62,324 units in December and declined from 709,645 units to 638,290 units in the April-December period.

Coming to passenger cars, it rose from 48,787 units to 62,788 units in December and declined from 718,548 units to 644,151 units in the April-December period of 2024.

Total export sales during the April-December 2024 period rose 21.1 per cent to 247,496 units, against 204,327 units in the year-ago period.

Hyundai Motor India Limited recorded its highest-ever yearly domestic sales of 605,433 units in 2024.

According to an exchange filing from the automaker, this milestone marks the third consecutive year of record-breaking domestic sales. Combined with exports, HMIL’s total sales for the calendar year reached 764,119 units.

In December 2024, HMIL reported total sales of 55,078 units, comprising 42,208 units sold domestically and 12,870 units exported. While these figures indicate a slight decline of 2.4 per cent compared to December 2023, they reaffirm the company’s consistent performance throughout the year.

Auto company Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) witnessed a 16 per cent increase in overall automotive sales, with 69,768 units in December, the company stated on Wednesday in an exchange filing.

In the utility vehicle segment, the company sold 41,424 vehicles in the domestic market, a growth of 18 per cent and overall, 42,958 vehicles, including exports. The domestic sales for commercial vehicles stood at 19,502.

Mahindra’s farm equipment sector saw domestic sales in December 2024 of 22,019 units, as against 18,028 units during December 2023. (ANI)

Historic Train Service from Katra to Srinagar to Begin with Vande Bharat and Express Trains, Note Timings

Vande Bharat train

The direct train to Kashmir is finally becoming a reality with the Northern Railways announcing the first-ever train timings between Katra in Jammu and Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

The train service includes newly introduced Vande Bharat trains and Mail/Express trains, as per a communication from Northern Railways.

  • Vande Bharat Express:
    Departs Katra (SVDK): 8:10 a.m.
    Arrives Srinagar: 11:20 a.m.
  • Mail/Express (Morning):
    Departs Katra: 9:50 a.m.
    Arrives Srinagar: 1:10 p.m.
  • Mail/Express (Afternoon):
    Departs Katra: 3:00 p.m.
    Arrives Srinagar: 6:20 p.m.

The historic service is expected to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 6, while trains are expected to chug between Kashmir and Jammu around January 26, coinciding with Republic Day celebrations.

The train services will transform travel experiences by significantly reducing travel time and offering passengers a comfortable journey through the scenic landscapes of the region.

Dr. Tanveer Ahmad and his PhD student Ms. Nisha Chaudhary in Jamia Millia Islamia Develops AI-Powered Oral Cancer Detection Technology, Granted Patent by Indian Government

As 2024 draws to a close, Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) proudly unveils a revolutionary advancement in the battle against oral cancer. Researchers at the university have developed an innovative technology that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital pathology to dramatically improve the detection and prediction of this deadly disease. This breakthrough promises to reshape cancer diagnostics, offering more precise, cost-effective, and widely accessible solutions for patients across the globe. The groundbreaking work comes from a scientist of Kashmir origin.

The Indian government has officially recognized the innovation, granting a patent on December 24, 2024, for the system titled A system and method for genomic markers and digital pathology image-based prediction of oral malignant disorders. Designed by Dr. Tanveer Ahmad and his PhD student Ms. Nisha Chaudhary from the Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced Research and Studies (MCARS), this invention is set to revolutionize the way oral cancer is diagnosed and managed.

The technology leverages a combination of tissue image analysis and genomic markers, enabling detailed insights into various oral conditions such as oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), oral leukoplakia (OLL), oral lichen planus (OLP), and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). For OSCC, the system can assess the severity of the cancer, categorizing it as well-differentiated, moderately differentiated, or poorly differentiated. Moreover, the system predicts the likelihood of precancerous conditions advancing into malignant stages, providing critical information for early intervention.

In addition to its accuracy, the technology offers a significant reduction in diagnostic costs, making advanced oral cancer detection more accessible. By incorporating AI and digital pathology, the system also provides clear treatment pathways, leading to improved outcomes for patients.

The research team’s remarkable work was recently published in Scientific Data, a high-impact journal by the Nature Publishing Group, with an impressive impact factor of 9.8. Their article, High-resolution AI image dataset for diagnosing oral submucous fibrosis and squamous cell carcinoma, not only provides a valuable tool for researchers worldwide but also highlights the significance of their contributions to the field.

This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort, with Dr. Ahmad and Ms. Chaudhary working alongside esteemed researchers such as Dr. Akhilanand Chaurasia, Dr. Arpita Rai, Dr. Deepika Mishra, and Dr. Charbel Darido. Their combined expertise has laid the foundation for transformative advancements in both digital pathology and oral cancer research.

Professor Mohammad Husain, Director of MCARS, praised this achievement as a moment of immense pride for Jamia Millia Islamia. He extended heartfelt congratulations to the entire team, recognizing their dedication and visionary work, which has brought global recognition to the university.

This innovative research and its patent recognition represent a significant milestone not just for JMI, but for the global scientific and medical communities. Looking ahead to 2025, this technology stands as a beacon of hope for more accessible and effective cancer diagnostics.

Over the past five years, Dr. Tanveer Ahmad, a specialist in gene-editing, and his team have been at the forefront of various innovations aimed at improving the detection and treatment of life-threatening diseases, including the development of a COVID-19 detection tool.

Bandipora Police Attach ₹52.5 Lakh Land of Terrorist Handler Mushtaq Ahmad Mir Under UAPA in Hilalabad Nesbal Sumbal

In a significant crackdown on terrorism, Bandipora police have attached 2 Kanals and 7.5 Marlas of land in Hilalabad Nesbal Sumbal, valued at ₹52.5 lakh, under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

A Spokesperson said that they have attached 02 Kanals & 7.5 Marlas of land under Survey No.’s 898(1.5M),862(7.75M)& 938(01K-9.25M),having market value of 52.5 lakhs located at village Hilalabad Nesbal Sumbal under UA(P)Act.The property belongs to Mushtaq Ahmad Mir S/o Gh Mohiuddin Mir R/o Hilalabad Nesbal Sumbal, a terror handler presently operating from Pak.

“The land had been identified as proceeds of terrorism and was attached under sections of 85 BNSS in respect of said terrorist Handler following his declaration as proclaimed offender in Case FIR No.37/2024 under UA(P)Act, IA Act and E&IMCO Act of PS Pethkote.The operation reaffirms the commitment of Bandipora police in combating terrorism of all kinds”.

Missing Since 8 Days, Umer Yaseen Shah Found Dead inside a Thar Vehicle Near Gandool, Ramban

A man, hailing from Central Kashmir’s Nowgam area of Srinagar, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gadool, Ramban, on Monday.

An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the man from Srinagar, who had reportedly been missing since December 22, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gandool, Ramban.

He said the body was spotted this afternoon, and police have arrived at the scene and took the body into their custody.He was later identified as Umer Yaseen Shah, a resident of Railway Colony, Nowgam, Srinagar.Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident—(KNO)

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Praises Swift Snowfall Response by Power and Roads Departments

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday commended the swift response of government departments in dealing with the disruptions caused by recent heavy snowfall in the valley.

Highlighting the efforts of the Power Development Department (PDD), Abdullah noted their remarkable work in restoring electricity after outages.

In a post on X, he wrote, The Power Department did a remarkable job dealing with the outages caused by the recent snowfall in the valley. These numbers tell the complete story. The supply of electricity dipped drastically between the hours of 4 AM & 10 AM as the system was hit by the snow. From 10 AM the demand starts recovering as the system was brought back online & the damage repaired.

The Chief Minister gave a special mention to the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), saying, “Kudos to @kpdclofficial for their work on the ground.”

Abdullah also applauded the Publics Works Department (Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department) for their efficiency in clearing snow-covered roads and lanes. “They moved quickly to open the main roads and then, as per the schedule of priority, continued their efforts. Today the focus has been on smaller roads and inner lanes,” he said.

The timely response by both departments has been widely appreciated, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life in the valley despite challenging weather conditions.

A Landmark Judgement in Kashmir: Jammu Kashmir High Court Upholds Muslim Daughter’s Inheritance Rights in Case of Mst Mukhti

Justice Koul

Introduction

In a historic decision, the High Court of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh has brought much-needed attention to the issue of women’s inheritance rights in Kashmiri society. Justice Vinod Chatterji Koul’s recent ruling in favour of a Muslim woman’s descendants highlights the gap between Islamic law and societal practices in the region. The case sheds light on cultural biases that continue to deny women their lawful inheritance, despite clear guidelines in the Quran.

The Case of Mst Mukhti

The case centred around Mst Mukhti, a Muslim woman who sought her rightful inheritance from her father’s property in Zainakote, Srinagar. Despite a 1996 High Court judgement granting her one-third of the property, Mukhti and her heirs faced decades of resistance from administrative bodies and her own family.

Administrative and Judicial Failures

Mukhti’s battle for justice was prolonged by contradictory administrative orders that ignored the court’s decision. Justice Koul’s recent ruling quashed these orders and directed the Revenue Department to enforce the 1996 judgement within three months, highlighting the systemic failures in upholding women’s inheritance rights.

Islamic Law on Inheritance

Islamic law, as outlined in Surah An-Nisa, provides a clear and equitable system for inheritance. Daughters are entitled to a share of their parents’ property, albeit half that of sons. This system addresses historical injustices and ensures financial security for women.

Cultural Biases in Kashmiri Society

Despite being a Muslim-majority region, many in Kashmir fail to follow these Quranic guidelines. Justice Koul pointed out the selective adherence to Islamic practices, where rituals are observed but inheritance laws are often ignored. This cultural bias perpetuates inequality and undermines both religious principles and legal systems.

Mukhti’s Struggle

Mukhti’s brother resisted her claim, citing customary practices that favoured male heirs. Such resistance not only violated Islamic teachings but also led to decades-long legal battles, eroding familial trust and unity.

The Court’s Stand

The court’s judgement declared the administrative orders denying Mukhti’s heirs their rights as illegal and void. Justice Koul emphasised the need for authorities to uphold both constitutional and religious principles, ensuring timely justice for women.

Broader Implications

This ruling is a wake-up call for Kashmiri society to introspect and align its practices with Islamic teachings. Ignoring Quranic guidelines on inheritance perpetuates injustice and creates unnecessary societal discord.

Steps Towards Change

The judgement’s directive to implement the order within three months is a significant step towards delivering justice. It sends a strong message that deviation from Islamic law will not be tolerated, encouraging the community to abandon discriminatory customs.

A Call for Equality

Mukhti’s case highlights the need for broader societal change. By embracing the principles of equality and justice enshrined in Islamic law, Kashmiri Muslims can move towards a more harmonious and just society.

Conclusion

Justice Koul’s landmark ruling underscores the importance of enforcing women’s inheritance rights under Islamic law. It serves as a reminder that adherence to these principles is not optional. By addressing cultural and procedural barriers, the community can ensure justice, equality, and unity for future generations.

Police Attaches Properties of Notorious Drug Peddler Ishrat Ahmad Mir worth lakhs in Adipora Sopore under the NDPS Act

ishrat ahmad mir

In a significant move to combat the menace of drug trafficking and to eradicate the menace of drugs from the society, Sopore police on Friday has attached property of notorious drug peddler worth lacs in Sopore.

A Spokesperson said, Police attached a two stories residential house valued at approximately ₹17,00,000/- located at Adipora Sopore, under the NDPS Act 1985.

The attached property, two storey residential house belongs to one notorious drug peddler namely Ishrat Ahmad Mir S/O Abdul Kabir Mir R/O Adipora Sopore.

The said property was acquired by the subject from the proceeds of narcotics. The inquiry revealed that the said immovable property was raised/ used for Illicit Trafficking by the drug peddler.

By targeting and freezing the illegal assets of drug peddlers/smugglers involved in the organized illegal narco trade, Sopore Police has dealt a severe blow to their criminal activities. Depriving these criminals of the proceeds derived from drug trafficking is an essential step in curbing their influence and crippling the drug trade in the valley.

General public have appreciated the action taken by sopore police in safeguarding them from the devastating effects of drug abuse and trafficking.

MLA Nizamuddin Bhat Seeks Highway Status for Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez Road

Nizam-ud-Din Bhat

MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat has written to chief minister Omar Abdullah to seek highway status to Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez road, the main connectivity to the district with Srinagar and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

In the letter, Bhat has sought the intervention of Omar Abdullah to have this “long pending demand duly considered for early redressal”.

He stated that Bandipora the main connectivity has not been accorded highway status from Sumbal to Gurez, despite its strategic, economic, and accessibility considerations.

Bhat also said that all three legislators from Bandipora raised the issue in a joint review meeting of the district with authorities concerned recently.

Demand for granting highway status to Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez road has been getting louder with all three legislators from Bandipora including Congress leader Nizamuddin Bhat, and National Conference legislators Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, and Hilal Akbar Lone raising the issue with the relevant authorities.

Nizamuddin Bhat also raised the issue in the first session of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in November this year, seeking intervention of the house to get this demand redressed at an earliest.

Death Toll from Mystery Illness in Rajouri District Rises to Nine, Probe Ordered

Dead body

The number of deaths from an Mystery illness in Rajouri district has risen to nine, with a woman breathing her last today due to the mysterious disease, prompting authorities to order a probe to ascertain the cause of her death.

Reports said the woman, a resident of Badhaal village, died after sudden medical complications with initial symptoms not resembling with earlier deaths.They said the district administration has ordered an immediate probe to ascertain the cause of her death.

The woman had earlier lost her two sons and a daughter to the ‘mystery’ illness.A Biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) mobile laboratory has been dispatched to Rajouri to expedite testing and identify the illness, officials said.

All India Professionals’ Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone as Head of Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir

Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone

The All India Professionals’ Congress (AIPC) announces the appointment of Tanveer Lone as the head of the Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir. This significant appointment reaffirms AIPC’s commitment to enhancing leadership and professional engagement in the UT .

Tanveer Lone is a highly motivated and passionate individual , a postgraduate in Economics and Public Administration. Lone, who hails from Tangmarg, a popular tourist destination, has a proven track record of mentoring many young people in sports and teaching snowboarding to over 100 underprivileged children.

AIPC Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh AIPC National Sports vertical Head made the appointment, reflecting AIPC’s dedication to empowering professionals and ensuring impactful leadership across diverse sectors. Sanjay Sapru, J&K head of AIPC, expressed gratitude to Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh for the appointment.

“I’m deeply thankful for recognizing the potential of our professionals in Jammu and Kashmir and for this strategic appointment,” said Sanjay Sapru. “Tanveer Lone brings immense expertise and dedication, driving AIPC’s vision forward and strengthening our professional community in the important Sports vertical.”

This development aligns with AIPC’s expansion nationwide, aiming to build a robust network of skilled individuals contributing to public discourse and policy. Under Chairman Praveen Chakravarty’s guidance, AIPC remains a steadfast platform for professionals to engage meaningfully in public life and policy-making processes.

The newly appointed head is expected to take up his role with immediate effect, spearheading initiatives within the Sports vertical to create impactful change in Jammu Kashmir . The All India Professionals’ Congress reaffirms its dedication to supporting professionals and fostering leadership that contributes to societal growth and development.

Longest Surviving Top Hizb Commander Farooq Nali Along with 4 Militants killed in Kadder Kulgam Encounter 

Kadder area

In a major breakthrough for security forces, Top Hizb Commander Farooq Nali was killed along with other four terrorists in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Thursday.

A top police officer said that Farooq Nali was most wanted militant and was one of the longest surviving militant in Valley has been killed in a gunfight with police and security forces.

Farooq Nali was involved in many terror related incidents. He was behind many attacks on civilians as well on security forces, the officer said.His death is a big achievement for police and security forces, the officer added.Earlier, during firefight, five militants were killed as well two army soldiers were injured.(GNS)

Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Ayushi Sudan Hands-Over Transition Orders to 27 Grade III Teachers

Ayushi Sudan

In a significant event organized at the District Complex Kupwara, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today distributed transition orders in favour of 27 teachers who were promoted from Grade III to Grade II.

The ceremony marked a step forward in enhancing the quality of education across the district.

The transition of these teachers, who have successfully completed the required qualifications, aligns with the district’s efforts to ensure a robust and progressive educational system aimed at benefiting the student community.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC hailed the contribution of teachers in district Kupwara. She emphasised the critical role of teachers in bridging learning gaps and urged the teaching fraternity to work diligently towards academic excellence.

CEO Kupwara reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting educators and called upon them to uphold their responsibilities with dedication and sincerity.

The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the educational landscape of Kupwara, fostering better learning outcomes and a brighter future for the younger generation.

Arms, Narcotics Recovered in Amrohi area of Tangdhar Sector North Kashmir:  Army

indian army

Security forces on Wednesday claimed to have recovered arms, ammunition, and narcotics in Amrohi area of Tangdhar Sector in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

In a post on X, Army’s Chinar Corps, said that a joint search operation was launched in the area following specific intelligence inputs.

The Army said that during search, four pistols, six pistol magazines, 4 kg narcotics and other war-like stores have been recovered.

“Chinar Corps remains steadfast in its commitment to keep Kashmir terror-free,” it said—(KNO)

Double-Storey Residential House Gutted in Dardihaji Rajwar Handwara

J&K Additional Resident Commissioner Anil Sharma Felicitates Gold Medalists of 62nd National Roller Skating Championship

Drug Peddler Nisar Ahmad Kambay Arrested in Ganderbal; Contraband Substance Recovered

Police Seizes Vehicle Hyundai Venue of Notorious Drug Peddler Javeed Ahmad Sofi worth Rs 10.5 lacs in Handwara

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Likely to Meet Amit Shah Tomorrow Over Statehood Restoration Issue

At SVMM Charitable Hospital Ambphalla, Jammu Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurates MRI, CT Scan Center

MRI, CT Scan Center

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the MRI and CT Scan Center at Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission (SVMM) Charitable Hospital in Ambphalla, Jammu.

Member of Legislative Assembly (Udhampur East) Pawan Gupta, President SVMM Charitable Hospital Anil Gupta, Patron Dr. Subash Gupta, President Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry Arun Gupta, along with members of the hospital’s managing committee, faculty, staff, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister commended the hospital for its exceptional services to the people.He remarked that institutions like SVMM Charitable Hospital exemplify the spirit of service, providing affordable and quality healthcare.“The hospital operates like a private institution in terms of its services but ensures affordability, charging even lower than government hospitals,” Omar Abdullah said.

Reflecting on the hospital’s journey, the Chief Minister acknowledged its humble beginnings as a single-room dispensary and praised its evolution into a reputable healthcare institution. “This transformation is truly remarkable and worthy of admiration,” he added.

The Chief Minister also lauded the hospital’s neo-natal section, noting with satisfaction that the recovery rate for infants in the ICU stands at an impressive 100 percent.“This achievement is reassuring not only for the hospital but also for the parents whose children are being treated here,” he said.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister took a round of the hospital, inspecting various sections, and interacted with faculty members and patients alike to understand their experiences and concerns.Emphasizing the importance of humanitarian service, Omar Abdullah remarked, “To serve God, we must serve humanity.”

The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s support for the hospital, promising assistance from his administration and cabinet colleagues to further strengthen its healthcare initiatives.

Double-Storey Residential House Gutted in Dardihaji Rajwar Handwara

Fire Erupts in Bohlagpora

A double-storey residential house was gutted in Dardihaji, Rajwar area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Monday.

The Fire & Emergency Department, Police, and Army worked to control the fire but failed to control the raging flames and with the result the house turned into ashes.Belongings worth lakhs of rupees were gutted but no loss of life or injuries were reported.

Residents were furious, highlighting that despite hundreds of houses being gutted in Rajwar over the years, the administration and the government had failed to establish a Fire and Emergency Service station in the nearby Zachaldara.

They said that this negligence continues to endanger lives and property in the region. The house belonged to Muhammad Yasin Pir of Dardhaji.

Police Attaches Motor Cycle Used in Terrorist Activities Under UAPA in Handwara

Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Acting firmly against terrorism, Police in Handwara have attached a motor cycle bearing registration number JK05L-7265 under the provisions of Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967.

Following administrative approval, the order for attachment was issued in connection with case FIR No. 198/2024 of Police Station Handwara registered under Sections 7/25 IA Act, 13, 23, 18, 38, 39 of UAPA 1967, and Section 4 of the Explosives Act.

During the investigation, it was established that the said motor cycle was used for carrying out terrorist activities and represents proceeds of terrorism.

This decisive action underscores Police’s commitment to disrupt terror networks and ensure the safety and security of the region.

In A Decade 9070 Lives Lost in Road Accidents in J&K ,18-46 Age Group Most Affected,9% Deaths Involve Teens: GoI

accident

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed 9,070 fatalities in road accidents in a decade with the people aged between 18-45 years most affected.

This data was revealed by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Jairam Gadkari in Parliament as part of a nationwide review of road safety in response to a query.

He said that the fatalities were most prominent in the age group of 18-45 years, which accounted for nearly 60% of the deaths during the period.

He said that in the age group of 14-17 years, around 7% of fatalities were recorded which depicts involvement of underage and inexperienced drivers. For persons aged above 45, approximately 25% of the deaths occurred which shows the need for heightened safety awareness across all age brackets.

The Minister said that two-wheelers accounted for the highest number of fatalities in J&K, followed by light motor vehicles such as cars and SUVs with heavy vehicles like trucks and buses also contributed significantly. Pedestrians and cyclists were not spared, with many losing their lives due to inadequate infrastructure and driver negligence.

He also said that the majority of accidents occurred during daylight hours, contrary to the assumption that night driving is more dangerous which indicates the need for constant vigilance and safer driving practices throughout the day.

The Minister said that the government is committed to reduce road accident fatalities by 50% by 2030, aligning with global commitments under the Stockholm Declaration on Road Safety.

He said that the “4 Es” strategy—Education, Engineering, Enforcement, and Emergency care is the framework for addressing these challenges in J&K.

He further said that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has initiated accident-prone area audits, installation of safety signages, and awareness campaigns targeting high-risk groups. Stricter enforcement of the Motor Vehicles Act, 2019, is also being implemented to ensure better compliance with road safety regulations.

The Minister said that J&K’s difficult terrains and rapidly increasing vehicle numbers exacerbate road safety risks. Collaboration with local authorities, enhanced infrastructure, and public participation are important to address these issues, he said.

Labourer Mohd Jamal Mir Dies After Water Tank Falls on Him in Srinagar

Police Solves Burglary Case in Seelo Sopore, Stolen Property Recovered

Dr Karan Singh Congratulates CM Omar Abdullah for Deciding to Reintroduce ‘Darbar Move’

IGP Traffic M. Suleman Choudhary Assesses Traffic Scenario; Ongoing Construction Works in District Samba, Kathua

Minister Sakeena Itoo Emphasizes Preservation of Kashmiri Language and Culture at Kashmir University’s ‘Sonzal’ Youth Festival

Abdul Hameed Sofi Dies at Government Medical College Handwara, Family Alleges Medical Negligence

dead

A 37-year-old man, Abdul Hameed Sofi, a resident of Arampora, Kupwara, tragically passed away at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara on Tuesday morning while as the family has alleged medical negligence.

Sofi, a father of three, was admitted to the hospital earlier in the day, complaining of arm pain and discomfort.Family members, according to the news agency—KNO said that doctors initially described his condition as stable after conducting preliminary tests. However, the patient later died at the hospital.

Relatives alleged that a staff member, who they claimed was a compounder rather than a doctor, dismissed the patient’s condition as a mere act of drama. They also accused the hospital staff of withholding an ECG report that could shed light on the events, leading to Sofi’s death.

“There was no qualified doctor present during the critical moments. If there were none available, they should have asked us to wait,” a family member stated, adding that CCTV footage from the hospital could verify their claims.

The hospital authorities, however, refuted the allegations. Medical Superintendent Dr. Aijaz Ahmed Bhat clarified that Sofi was admitted at 6:45 am with chest discomfort and was immediately attended by a doctor on duty. An ECG test was conducted, which reportedly appeared normal, and the patient was kept under observation.

“After administering an injection and a tablet, the patient suddenly collapsed. Despite resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived,” Dr. Aijaz explained, adding that further tests, including TropT, were negative.

The allegations of mishandling and unavailability of doctors were investigated by the police and local Tehsildar. Preliminary findings based on CCTV footage suggested that the patient was attended by both doctors and paramedical staff, dismissing claims of negligence.

However, the hospital administration has promised a thorough investigation. “A high-level committee will be formed to probe the family’s allegations, and a detailed report will be submitted within two to three days,” Dr. Aijaz assured—(KNO)

Major Reshuffle in Civil Administration, 22 JKAS officers transferred

Cheif Minister Omar Abdullah Vows Support for Local Industries at JCCI Event in Jammu

Power Development Department Proposes Extra Power to Reduce Distress, unscheduled power cuts

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Launches 3rd Edition of “Kartavya Marg” Magazine at Raj Bhawan

Srinagar Police Seeks Help of General Public to identify the Vehicle Involved in Theft Case