Fatal Collision on Dastoor Highway
ISLAMABAD — Tragedy struck on Islamabad’s Dastoor Highway near Secretariat Chowk when a speeding vehicle ran over two women riding a scooter, killing them instantly. The victims, whose identities have not yet been released, were rushed to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) hospital, but doctors were unable to save them.
Police quickly arrested the driver, identified as Asif, and seized the vehicle for further investigation. Authorities described the accident as a high-speed collision, emphasizing that reckless driving likely contributed to the fatal outcome.
Allegations of Reckless Driving and Social Media Distraction
Initial investigations indicate that the driver was traveling at excessive speed and lost control of the vehicle. According to police sources, he was allegedly recording a video for Snapchat immediately before the accident. Following the crash, the driver reportedly discarded his mobile phone at the scene.
This raises concerns about the growing role of social media distractions in road accidents. Experts have repeatedly warned that recording videos while driving significantly increases the risk of collisions, a concern highlighted in urban areas across Pakistan where traffic congestion and speeding often intersect.
Driver’s Claims Under Scrutiny
Police said the driver claimed to be an adult with a valid driving license. However, he did not possess either his national identity card or a driving license at the time of arrest. Authorities are now seeking to verify his age and license status.
In a petition submitted to the court, police requested a seven-day physical remand for the suspect. The remand would allow investigators to complete a detailed examination, including retrieving footage from his mobile phone, confirming his age through medical tests, and questioning other individuals present at the scene.
Legal and Safety Implications
Traffic experts note that such incidents highlight serious safety concerns on Islamabad’s main thoroughfares. Similar accidents, such as a recent school bus accident in Sheikhupura that injured 21 children, show how speeding and distracted driving put vulnerable passengers at risk, where the National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) report that over 5,000 deaths occur on roads annually due to reckless driving, over speeding, and distractions.
Authorities say they are committed to investigating whether the driver’s social media activity directly contributed to the deaths. If proven, such behavior could lead to stricter penalties under Pakistan’s motor vehicle laws.
Calls for Greater Awareness and Enforcement
Road safety advocates are urging the government to increase awareness campaigns about the dangers of distracted driving, particularly among young motorists who frequently use smartphones while behind the wheel. They also recommend stricter enforcement of speed limits, more frequent traffic patrols, and the installation of speed cameras in high-risk areas.
Incidents like this underscore the urgent need for better road safety measures, both to protect vulnerable road users, such as scooter riders, and to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Ongoing Investigation
Police continue to investigate the accident, examining vehicle speed, eyewitness accounts, and digital evidence. They hope the findings will provide clarity on the circumstances leading to the crash and ensure justice for the victims’ families.
Authorities have urged citizens to report unsafe driving and emphasized that reckless behavior on roads could result in serious legal consequences, including imprisonment and fines.
