January 2nd 2025.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
Bhubaneswar: On Wednesday, Odisha took a crucial step towards reducing road accidents and fatalities by launching a month-long Road Safety Month. The goal of this campaign, which will run until January 31, is to promote road safety and implement stricter traffic regulations. The Chief Secretary, Miohan Ahuja, led a preparatory meeting to discuss the plan and layout for the entire month. As per the request of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, all state governments have been asked to raise awareness and organize various programs related to road safety this year, in addition to the annual celebration of Road Safety Week.
During the meeting, Ahuja stressed the importance of addressing road construction errors that often contribute to accidents. He also emphasized the need to identify and fix accident-prone areas, commonly known as black spots, and utilize digital campaigns to spread awareness. To ensure maximum impact, NCC cadets, volunteers, and students will join forces to spread road safety messages.
One of the main focuses of this campaign will be the strict enforcement of traffic laws. Joint operations with the police will target violators, including drunk drivers and those illegally parking on highways. Special enforcement teams will be stationed at picnic spots and tourist locations, and patrols will be intensified in critical areas. In addition, student volunteers and NGOs will counsel traffic violators to promote safer driving practices. The slogans "Road Safety, Family Protection" and "Return Home Safely" will serve as a reminder of the importance of this campaign, and efforts will be made to involve citizens, government agencies, and volunteer organizations.
Over the past decade, Odisha has witnessed more than 47,000 road accident deaths, with an average of 5,000 fatalities per year. Speeding, drug use, wrong-side driving, and flouting traffic rules are some of the major causes of these accidents. Shockingly, road accident deaths surpass fatalities from many natural disasters worldwide. The Road Safety Month initiative aims to make a significant impact by combining awareness, enforcement, and community involvement to ensure safer roads for everyone. Let us all join hands and work towards a safer and more responsible driving culture in Odisha.
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