Motorists Cause Huge Traffic Jam in Diamer-Bhasha Tunnel After Ignoring Safety Signs

A dangerous traffic situation unfolded inside the Diamer–Bhasha Dam access tunnel after motorists ignored repeated safety warnings and traffic rules, causing a massive traffic jam in one of Pakistan’s most critical infrastructure routes. Despite multiple “no overtaking” signs installed throughout the tunnel, drivers continued reckless behavior, turning the narrow passage into a high-risk bottleneck.

Videos circulating on social media show vehicles stuck bumper-to-bumper inside the tunnel, with some drivers attempting unsafe overtaking while passengers, including families, stepped out of cars and walked inside the enclosed tunnel—greatly increasing the danger.

This article explains what happened, why the situation is extremely dangerous, the importance of the Diamer-Bhasha tunnel, and what authorities and motorists must do to prevent such incidents in the future—written in easy English and optimized for search.

What Happened Inside the Diamer-Bhasha Tunnel?

The incident occurred inside the 3.4-kilometer-long access tunnel leading to the Diamer-Bhasha Dam.

According to reports:

• At least 10 “No Overtaking” signboards are clearly installed inside the tunnel
• Drivers ignored these warnings
• Cars and vans attempted to overtake in a narrow, enclosed space
• Traffic came to a complete standstill

As congestion increased, passengers exited vehicles and walked inside the tunnel, further worsening the situation.

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Social Media Video Highlights the Risk

A viral video posted on social media clearly shows:

• Vehicles stuck for long periods
• Drivers switching lanes dangerously
• People standing and walking inside the tunnel

The Urdu caption accompanying the video pointed out that despite clear instructions, Pakistani motorists continue to ignore basic traffic discipline.

Such behavior inside a tunnel is not only illegal but potentially life-threatening.

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Why Overtaking Is Strictly Banned in Tunnels

Tunnels are designed with limited width, visibility, and ventilation. Ignoring safety rules inside them can quickly lead to disasters.

Key Dangers of Overtaking in Tunnels

• No escape routes
• Limited lighting
• Poor visibility
• No room for emergency vehicles
• Fire and smoke risk

Even a minor collision inside a tunnel can escalate into a major emergency.

Strategic Importance of the Diamer-Bhasha Tunnel

The tunnel is not an ordinary road. It serves as a strategic access route to Pakistan’s largest hydropower project.

Why This Tunnel Is Critical

• Used by heavy construction machinery
• Supports dam construction logistics
• Shared by public and commercial vehicles
• Located in a mountainous, remote region

Disruptions here can affect national development timelines.

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Mixed Traffic Increases Risk

One of the biggest challenges is the mix of traffic using the tunnel.

Vehicles Using the Tunnel

• Heavy construction trucks
• Engineering machinery
• Public transport vans
• Private cars and families

Such mixed usage requires strict discipline, which was completely absent during the incident.

Passengers Walking Inside the Tunnel: A Major Safety Hazard

Perhaps the most alarming aspect was people stepping out of vehicles.

Why This Is Extremely Dangerous

• No pedestrian walkways
• Risk of sudden vehicle movement
• Poor air circulation
• Possibility of panic in emergencies

In case of fire, smoke, or engine failure, trapped pedestrians could face fatal consequences.

Tunnel Safety Rules Exist for a Reason

Authorities install multiple warning signs not for decoration but for human safety.

Common Tunnel Safety Rules

• No overtaking
• Maintain safe distance
• Keep headlights on
• Do not stop unnecessarily
• Never exit vehicle unless instructed

Ignoring these rules puts everyone at risk, not just the driver.

Why Do Motorists Ignore Traffic Signs?

Traffic experts believe several factors contribute to such incidents:

Common Reasons

• Lack of awareness
• Impatience
• Poor enforcement
• Habitual rule-breaking
• Overconfidence

Unfortunately, these behaviors are common on highways across Pakistan.

Absence of Strict Enforcement

While signage is present, on-ground enforcement appears weak.

What’s Missing

• Traffic police presence
• CCTV monitoring
• Fines and penalties
• Immediate response teams

Without enforcement, many drivers feel free to ignore rules.

Potential Consequences of a Tunnel Accident

Had a collision or breakdown occurred, the situation could have turned catastrophic.

Possible Outcomes

• Complete tunnel blockage
• Fire or smoke accumulation
• Panic among trapped passengers
• Delayed emergency response
• Loss of lives

Tunnels are among the most dangerous locations for accidents.

Lessons From International Tunnel Accidents

Globally, tunnel accidents have caused devastating losses due to:

• Fire spread
• Toxic smoke
• Limited exits

This is why developed countries enforce zero tolerance for tunnel violations.

Impact on Diamer-Bhasha Dam Operations

Traffic disruptions affect:

• Movement of construction materials
• Workforce transportation
• Project timelines

Any delay in such a mega project impacts national energy planning.

Public Reaction and Criticism

Social media users expressed:

• Anger at reckless drivers
• Concern over lack of discipline
• Calls for strict punishment

Many users demanded heavy fines and permanent bans for violators.

What Authorities Need to Do

Experts suggest immediate action to prevent repeat incidents.

Recommended Measures

• Deploy traffic police inside tunnel
• Install speed cameras and CCTV
• Impose strict fines
• Limit public access during peak construction hours
• Awareness campaigns for drivers

Technology-based enforcement can significantly reduce violations.

Responsibility of Drivers

Ultimately, safety depends on drivers themselves.

Drivers Must:

• Follow signs and instructions
• Remain patient
• Understand tunnel risks
• Think beyond personal convenience

A few seconds saved are not worth human lives.

Role of Transport Education

Pakistan urgently needs better road safety education.

Suggested Steps

• Driver training programs
• Highway safety awareness
• Strict license testing
• Media campaigns

Education combined with enforcement can change behavior.

Gilgit-Baltistan’s Unique Challenges

The region’s:

• Narrow roads
• Harsh terrain
• Limited emergency access

make discipline even more critical than in urban areas.

Why This Incident Matters Nationally

This is not just a local traffic jam—it reflects:

• Weak traffic culture
• Poor respect for infrastructure
• Risk to national projects

Such incidents damage Pakistan’s development efforts.

Could This Happen Again?

Without corrective action, yes.

Similar behavior has been observed on:

• Mountain highways
• Motorways
• Construction access roads

Prevention requires consistent enforcement.

Safety Is a Shared Responsibility

Authorities can build tunnels and install signs—but:

• Drivers must obey
• Passengers must discourage reckless driving
• Society must reject rule-breaking

Only then can roads become safer.

Conclusion

The massive traffic jam inside the Diamer-Bhasha tunnel is a serious warning sign. Ignoring safety instructions in such a confined and critical space could have resulted in a deadly disaster. While infrastructure development continues at a rapid pace, traffic discipline has not kept up.

If Pakistan wants safe roads and successful mega projects, both authorities and citizens must take traffic laws seriously. Inside tunnels, one mistake can cost many lives—and that risk is simply unacceptable.

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