Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and former Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today expressed condolences on the death of 14 passengers in a road accident in Udhampur district.
Azad said: “My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their dear ones in the fatal accident and I pray to the almighty to give them strength to withstand this tragic loss. I also pray for the speedy recovery of those who have got injured.”
Fourteen passengers lost their lives while 17 were injured when a vehicle fell down into a gorge in the Ramnagar area of Udhampur district today.
The former CM urged the government to provide adequate ex gratia to the families of those who lost their lives and extend all possible assistance to those injured in the accident.
Drawing the attention of the CMtowards the frequent occurrence of road accidents, leading to loss of precious lives, Azad said there was a need to have a comprehensive road safety action plan to contain the rising number of accidents.
“Road safety is a key concern in J&K due to geographical and other factors. Keeping in view the loss incurred by the state, I had written to the Chief Minister earlier, underlining the need to formulate a coherent action plan. The Governor had shown personal interest in involving experts and stakeholders to formulate a road safety policy. I hope the government will take due note of the ground work done by the state government under the guidance of the Governor of J&K and use it for the safety and convenience of the public,” said Azad.
