Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI: Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma today reviewed ways and means to reduce fatalities in road accidents in the state, especially during the festive seasons. He has asked the authorities concerned to take strict preventive measures towards that end.
The meeting focused on the reasons behind road accidents. It has come to light at the review meeting that there has been a 14 percent decline in road fatalities in the state this year compared to last year. It has also come to light that most of the accidents take place on national highways. The meeting has found that most of the accidents in rural areas take place due to poor lighting and curbs on roads that have no signage and speed breakers.
The Chief Minister said, “While Assam has seen a dip in accident fatalities, the time period till January is very crucial to maintain these numbers. We may carry out extensive measures to ensure our roads are safe for all. We are committed to mitigating the menace of road accidents, particularly during the upcoming X-Mass, New Year, picnics, Bihu, etc.”
The Chief Minister instructed the PWD to incorporate provisions for speed breakers, crash barriers, signage, fluorescent lights, etc. in the DPRs (Detailed Project Reports) of roads to be constructed now on. All roads connecting national highways should have speed breakers, he said. He asked national highway authorities to use adequate lights, especially on flyovers. He also asked the PWD to minimise darkness in roads under them.
He said, “Sobre people hesitate to drive after 10 p.m. in Guwahati nowadays. They are scared of being embroiled in accidents involving unruly drunk drivers. It is a major concern for us. The police need to take tough action against drunk driving. We need to take a decision on the closing time of bars in Guwahati. The dhabas on either side of national highways without spacious parking spaces should not be allowed to run their business. As trucks parked near such dhabas often lead to accidents, the police need to ensure that parked commercial trucks and other vehicles illuminate reflective patches on the rear sides of their vehicles, especially trucks.”
The Chief Minister also instructed the Health Department to ensure that those injured in road accidents receive appropriate medical care and stressed the importance of ensuring the safety of medical personnel. He asked the Chief Secretary to arrange a meeting with health officials to address this issue.
Also Read: Assam: Cabinet Decides to Issue Show-Cause Notices to 682 Government Employees
Also Watch: