J&K Hill Roads Unsafe, Study Urges Action

Aatif Qayoom
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30 Apr 2026

Srinagar, Apr, 29: A study has flagged rising safety risks on mountain roads in J&K and called for urgent steps to prevent accidents.

The study, titled “Hill Driving A Matter of Road Safety” by Mubashir Jan, Assistant Transport Commissioner, J&K, states that hill driving demands skill, focus, and awareness, yet many drivers underestimate the risks.

It notes that narrow roads, steep gradients, and blind curves increase the chances of mishaps, especially during the monsoon when roads turn slippery and visibility drops.

It states that improper vehicle handling remains a major cause of accidents. Drivers often depend too much on brakes while descending, which leads to overheating and brake failure. The study stresses the use of lower gears to maintain control and reduce pressure on braking systems.

Highlighting technical gaps, the report points out that many drivers lack basic hill driving skills such as proper gear selection and controlled hill starts. It warns that failure to manage hill starts can cause vehicles to roll backward, posing danger to other road users.

The study also calls for strict adherence to safety norms. It urges drivers to maintain safe distance, avoid overtaking on blind curves, follow speed limits, and remain alert for animals and falling debris. It adds that drivers should allow faster vehicles to pass at safe points to prevent congestion and risky manoeuvres.

On infrastructure, the study refers to guidelines issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which recommend wider carriageways, crash barriers, proper signage, and slope protection measures on hill roads. It notes that gaps in implementation continue to affect road safety.

The study suggests introducing a mandatory hill driving endorsement on driving licences for those operating in mountainous regions. It says this step can improve driver preparedness and reduce accident rates.

With tourist traffic rising and vehicle movement increasing in hilly districts of J&K, the study calls for stronger enforcement and awareness drives. It urges authorities and drivers to treat hill roads with caution and follow safety norms at all times.