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The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Apr 16 – The Batamaloo Traders Association (BTA) has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating boat capsizing incident at Gandbal that claimed six innocent lives, including school children.
In a statement issued today, BTA President Peer Imtiyaz ul Hassan conveyed the association’s anguish and called for accountability from the authorities.
“It is with a heavy heart that we address the heart-wrenching tragedy at Gandbal, where 19 souls embarked on a journey only to face a calamitous fate,” Hassan said. “Among them, 10 were rescued, but 9 others, including young students and parents, lost their lives in the depths of the water.”
Hassan emphasized that the catastrophe was not merely an unfortunate incident but a consequence of negligence and oversight by the administration. For eight years, the completion of a crucial bridge for safe passage had been neglected, ultimately leading to this unimaginable loss of life and leaving families shattered.
“We cannot overlook the responsibility of school, entrusted with nurturing and safeguarding its students,” Hassan stated. “Their failure to ensure student safety left young lives vulnerable to such tragic circumstances.”
Acknowledging the collective responsibility of society, Hassan called for introspection and action from individuals and communities to create a safer environment for all. He urged advocating for infrastructure improvements, holding institutions accountable for student safety, and extending a helping hand to those in need.
“As we mourn the lives lost in this tragic incident, let us transform our sorrow into action,” Hassan implored. “Let us demand accountability from those in positions of authority, let us hold institutions to higher standards of care, and let us stand united in solidarity to prevent such heartbreak from ever occurring again.”
The BTA President extended condolences to the bereaved families and vowed to honor the memory of those who perished by striving for a safer and more compassionate society.
