It is a somber reality that road accidents have become a common occurrence in our country, often with terrible loss of lives as well as crippling injuries. On Tuesday morning, the country woke up to a shocking piece of news about the death of nine individuals in the Baglung bus accident. As many as 28 others have sustained injuries after the ill-fated bus en route from East Rukum to Kathmandu met with an accident at Jaulepani, Nisikhola Rural Municipality-6, along the mid-hill highway.

While it is important for riders to take necessary precautions, it is equally crucial for the concerned government authorities to take concrete actions to minimize the rate of accidents. It is high time for the formulation of new legislation that mandates formation of specialized bodies to oversee road safety standards.