In a tragic scene that shook the collective conscience, a young Bahraini couple lost their lives and their three children sustained serious injuries in a horrific traffic accident in the Saar area. This heartbreaking incident once again exposed the deadly consequences of disregarding traffic rules and the lack of awareness about basic safety requirements. It also revived a recurring question: how much longer will innocent lives continue to pay the price for others’ recklessness on the roads?
Preliminary investigations revealed that the accident was allegedly caused by excessive speeding and a lack of attention. The driver entered the opposite lane and collided head-on with the family’s car – an avoidable crash, had there been a bit more caution and a greater respect for the law.
In my view, the solution lies in increasing fines and toughening penalties, while simultaneously intensifying awareness programmes in schools, government institutions, companies and banks. We must fully utilise all social media platforms to launch a comprehensive national awareness campaign that targets everyone – citizens and residents alike. Under no circumstances should this or any other fatal accident pass without consequence.
I have written numerous articles on this very subject, urging strict action against anyone who dares to disrespect traffic laws, which exist to protect drivers and pedestrians alike. We’ve had enough of this senseless, unjustified recklessness. Not to mention the overwhelming number of vehicles – more than 800,000 – navigating roads that were never designed to handle such growth in traffic given the country’s limited infrastructure.
However, amid this painful scene, three remarkable responses stood out:
l First, the swift action of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, who directed the Interior Ministry to draft the necessary legislation to tighten traffic penalties. This move reflects the leadership’s commitment to the safety of all residents and a clear stance of zero tolerance toward those who endanger lives.
l Second, the deeply human gesture of HRH Prince Salman personally visiting the grieving family to offer condolences. This powerful message shows that the state does not only rely on laws – it also stands in solidarity with its people during their darkest moments. No doubt, this visit had a comforting impact on the bereaved family, proving that the leadership is present in both joy and sorrow, and that the people of Bahrain are truly one family.
l Third, the touching decision by the two schools attended by the children to cancel their graduation celebrations in solidarity with the mourning family. While symbolic, this gesture carries profound meaning and highlights the societal values that still thrive in our community. A heartfelt salute to the administrations of both schools for this noble act of compassion.
Imagine this: while writing this article, I received breaking news of yet another severe accident – a 29-year-old Bahraini man, according to the authorities, driving against traffic on Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Highway toward the King Fahad Causeway, crashing into multiple vehicles and injuring several people. Authorities responded to the scene. These bizarre and shocking incidents are alien to our Bahraini society and I can’t help but wonder where we are heading.
What we need today is not just tougher penalties, but a complete rebuilding of our traffic culture – starting at home, reinforced in schools, and upheld by firm law enforcement. Road safety is a shared responsibility that begins with the individual and doesn’t stop at legislation.
Best Regards.
Zuhair A Tawfiqi
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