Samba Times Special
Samba, J&K | The blind underpasses beneath several bridges along the NH-44 and the Expressway in Samba district have become a serious cause of concern for commuters. With no proper visibility, mirrors, signage, or lighting in place, these underpasses pose a significant risk of accidents, especially during night hours or foggy conditions.
Of all these, the blind underpass on NH-44 leading to the Nandani Hills Complex in Samba district has emerged as a serious safety hazard for daily commuters.
The biggest problem faced by drivers is that while using the underpass, they are forced to push their vehicles up the end until the driver’s window reaches the main road just to get a view of oncoming traffic. By that time, nearly 25 percent of the vehicle is already on the highway — creating a highly dangerous situation.
Locals warn that even a moment of carelessness by a speeding driver, especially during foggy weather or night time, could lead to a fatal collision. The risk is multiplied as this particular underpass is heavily used by the Samba Court staff, Advocates, clients, and the District Administration heading to the Nandani Hills Complex. Same is the condition of underpass of 17th Miles or SIDCO Complex, although the traffic influx is less at 17th Miles, while SIDCO underpass is under construction & used by the scooterist & bike riders at this time.
The Samba Times urges the district administration and highway authorities to take urgent corrective measures — such as installing mirrors, warning lights, and proper signage — before this blind underpass claims innocent lives.
