Shopian, April 02: Tragedy struck south Kashmir’s Shopian district as the bodies of two local residents, who died in a fatal accident, returned home on Wednesday. The victims, Zubair Ahmad Wani and Mushtaq Ahmad Dalal, lost their lives when the MG Hector vehicle they were traveling in collided with a divider near the Navyug Tunnel in Qazigund on Tuesday evening.
As the news of the accident spread, grief engulfed the district. Mourners crowded the narrow lanes leading to the homes of the deceased, sharing in the sorrow of their families. The air was filled with cries and wails as the bodies arrived, a stark reminder of the fragility of life.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The accident occurred when the group was returning from Jammu division’s Ramban district. The vehicle reportedly hit a divider shortly after exiting the Navyug Tunnel. Two other travelers, identified as Irshad Ahmad Mir and Umar Bashir Najar, suffered serious injuries. Additionally, an on-duty Special Police Officer (SPO), Showkat Ahmad, was critically injured when hit by the vehicle.
Locals described Mushtaq Ahmad Dalal as a compassionate soul and the sole breadwinner of his family. Dalal, who owned a fabric store in Shopian, leaves behind his wife, son, and daughter. The family had already endured a tragedy when Dalal’s elder brother died of cardiac arrest a few years ago.
In Hirpora village, grief hung heavy as Wani’s body arrived. Known for his dedication to his job as a mechanic at a Tata Garage, Wani had been married just six months earlier. He leaves behind his pregnant wife and elderly parents. A relative recounted how the family was informed about the accident by the police, describing the shock as overwhelming.
According to officials, the injured victims, including SPO Showkat Ahmad, are currently receiving treatment and remain in critical condition. The accident has sparked conversations around road safety, particularly concerning the challenging terrain and road conditions in the region.
Community Support and Solidarity
In times of grief, the community of Shopian has shown remarkable solidarity, coming together to support the affected families. Local leaders have extended condolences and called for prayers for the recovery of the injured. The tragic accident has left an indelible mark on the community of Shopian. As families mourn the untimely loss of their loved ones, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the value of community support in times of crisis.
