Road safety week concludes

SHILLONG, FEB 11:  The week long observation of the 30^th National Road Safety Week on the theme Sadak Suraksha-Jeevan Raksha, came to conclusion today in a function held at U Soso Tham Auditorium, Shillong. Meghalaya Chief Secretary,  Y Tsering, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest in the presence of the Guest of  Honour, M. R. Synrem, Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Meghalaya, Transport Department.

The week long progamme, organized by the Transport Department, the Police Department and the Meghalaya District Administration was aimed at raising public awareness about traffic rules with the purpose of reducing casualties due to road accidents.

Addressing the gathering, Y Tsering said that every year millions of people die and get injured in road accidents globally. In most cases these accidents occur due to non –adherence to safety norms, therefore he said that awareness on traffic rules and adhering to safety norms while driving or riding is the need of the hour.  Y. Tsering reiterated on the importance of  drivers refraining from using their mobile phones while driving; practice the habit of wearing seat belts for both the driver and passengers and also for riders and pillion to always wear helmets while riding. He also added that it is the responsibility of the drivers, pedestrians and lawmakers to work collectively to increase safe roads travel by applying simple rules.

M. R. Synrem in his address informed that in view of the increasing number of deaths due to accidents in the country, the Supreme Court of India has directed all State Governments and Union Territories to setup a Committee on Road Safe so as to ensure that safety rules on roads are enforced. As such, creating awareness on road safety is an ongoing process, he added. Synrem also informed that the Department is in the process of creating a short video on road safety which will be played in all local cinema halls.

Later, the Chief Secretary also administered the Road Safety Pledge to all present.

Others who spoke on the occasion were Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills District, M. W. Nongbri and DSP Traffic, W.M. Momin,

By Our Reporter