Tanveer Hussain
Baramulla, Sept 27: In a tragic incident late Saturday evening, around 18 sheep and goats were killed and several others injured after being hit by a speeding school bus on the Kunzar–Tangmarg road in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. The accident has left the affected family, who belong to a poor pastoral background, devastated.
Locals said the livestock were crossing the road near Kunzar when the bus lost control and rammed into the herd, killing the animals on the spot. Police rushed to the scene and registered a formal case, taking cognizance of the incident.
The livestock owner, who relied solely on rearing sheep and goats for livelihood, expressed deep anguish, saying, “These animals were our only source of income. Losing them is like losing our bread and butter.” The family appealed to authorities for compensation and strict action against reckless driving.
Residents voiced growing concern over overspeeding on the Kunzar–Tangmarg and Gulmarg roads. “Despite repeated awareness campaigns, drivers continue to ignore traffic rules. Unless strict enforcement is ensured, such accidents will keep happening,” a local said.
The victimized family made an emotional plea to the administration for financial assistance, while community elders urged stricter monitoring, installation of speed-control measures, checkpoints, and signboards to safeguard both commuters and livestock. [KNT]
