In the Neelam Valley of Pakistan-administered Kashmir, a van fell from a mountain road into the Neelam River on Sunday, June 9, 2024, killing 16 people, mostly children. Four individuals survived by jumping from the van before it submerged in the river.
Rescue operations have been ongoing, with six bodies recovered so far. Authorities, including residents and the Pakistan Army, continue to search for the remaining victims. “Given the river’s conditions and the time elapsed, the chances of survival are very slim,” said a police spokesperson.
Kashmir, a region divided between India and Pakistan, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes but also for its hazardous roads. Road accidents are common in Pakistan, often due to poor road infrastructure and a lack of adherence to traffic laws. “This is a tragic reminder of the need for improved road safety measures,” an official from the disaster management authority stated.
The Neelam Valley is particularly notorious for its narrow, winding mountain roads. “Drivers often take unnecessary risks, and the roads are not maintained to a safe standard,” added the official.
This incident is not an isolated one. Last month, a similar accident in the southwestern Baluchistan province resulted in 28 deaths and 20 injuries when a speeding passenger bus fell into a rocky ravine. These recurring accidents underscore the urgent need for better road safety nationwide.
The government has pledged to address these issues, but progress has been slow. “Road safety must become a priority to prevent further tragedies,” emphasized a local NGO spokesperson.
This incident has also drawn attention to the broader infrastructure development issue in remote Pakistan areas. “Investment in infrastructure is crucial, not just for economic development but for the safety of our citizens,” said an expert on regional development. “This tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for the authorities.”
Despite the grim circumstances, the resilience of the affected community is evident. “We will rebuild and move forward,” said a local leader. “But we will never forget those who lost their lives.”
