Road Safety Week observed

A correspondent

Shillong, April 30: The 29th National Road Safety Week, organized by the District Transport Officer of Shillong in collaboration with the District Administration and Police Department of East Khasi Hills district, concluded on Monday at a function held at U Soso Tham auditorium in Shillong.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Secretary Y Tshering enlightened the gathering about the Good Samaritan, who as the first responder helps the victims of road accidents. He further said that as per law, a Good Samaritan, who helps road accident victims, should not be held for any criminal liability.

Tshering also advised the students to use zebra crossing while crossing roads and be watchful while walking. “As a co-passenger in the vehicle you have every right to alert the driver to obey traffic rules to avoid any accident,” said the Chief Secretary.

To make the road safer for all and also to minimize the occurrence of road accidents, the Chief Secretary urged every citizens of the State to be responsible by following the traffic rules.

Other highlights of the day included administering of “my traffic pledge” by the chief guest, song and skit presentation by the troupes of Silbi Passah on the importance of traffic signals and the need of self regulation to observe traffic rules at all times to avoid road accidents.

During the week-long celebrations, various road safety awareness programmes for students and drivers were undertaken with the aim to reduce instances of over speeding, drinking and driving, driving without helmet and seat belts. The activities include pasting of posters, banners among other things to highlight the cause.