December 23rd 2024.
In a significant development aimed at enhancing road safety measures in the state, the State Transport Authority of Odisha has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras. The signing ceremony took place in Bhubaneswar and was attended by the Commerce and Transport Minister, Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.
According to an official statement, the MoU will pave the way for the implementation of innovative information, education, and communication (IEC) strategies to promote road safety. Leveraging the expertise of IIT Madras in the field of road safety technology and communication, the State Transport Authority aims to develop impactful campaigns that will empower citizens to adopt safe road practices and behaviors.
The partnership between the State Transport Authority and IIT Madras will focus on implementing the 4E model of road safety, which includes engineering, enforcement, emergency care, and education with empathy. This comprehensive approach is expected to effectively address road safety concerns in the state.
During the signing ceremony, Minister Jena expressed his satisfaction with the collaboration, stating that it marks a crucial step towards achieving the state government's goal of making Odisha's roads safer. He added that by combining cutting-edge research with practical, community-driven IEC strategies, the state is moving towards its vision of a 'viksit' Odisha, where safety and innovation coexist for the benefit of every citizen.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of utilizing modern technology, real-time data, and engaging communication tools in the initiatives outlined in the MoU. He emphasized the need for educational content, workshops, and state-wide campaigns to reduce road accidents and fatalities. Additionally, targeted outreach efforts will be employed to engage diverse groups, from school children to professional drivers, in promoting road safety.
Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Commerce and Transport Department, also spoke about the collaborative effort, stating that it demonstrates the state government's unwavering commitment to improving road safety, fostering innovation, and building a sustainable and safer urban mobility ecosystem.
Overall, this partnership between the State Transport Authority and IIT Madras is a positive step towards creating a safer road environment in Odisha, and it is hoped that it will bring about significant and long-lasting changes in road safety behavior.
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