Assam Sees 15% Drop in Road Accidents and Fatalities, Says CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

GUWAHATI: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on December 24 announced that Assam has emerged as the only major state in India to record a significant reduction in road accident fatalities, with a notable 15 percent decline in overall accidents and fatalities.

Speaking with stakeholders during a review meeting on road safety, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that a focused crackdown on drunk driving has been pivotal to this success. Strict enforcement of the "No Drink and Drive" rule, coupled with intensified checks after 10 PM in Guwahati, has significantly curbed road mishaps. 

CM Sarma further added that to sustain this momentum, an intensified road safety drive and monitoring program will continue until the Magh Bihu festivities. The Excise Department has also been tasked with exploring dynamic seasonal timings for bars to regulate late-night activities effectively. 

Recognizing the rising incidents in specific areas, authorities are expediting work on installing streetlights, foot overbridges, and reflective patches along the Guwahati Bypass. Additionally, new provisions, including speed breakers, crash barriers, and fluorescent signage, are being incorporated into road-building scopes by the Public Works Department (PWD). 

Border district SPs have been instructed to implement reflective patches on the rear sides of commercial vehicles to enhance visibility, while police and district administrations will launch extensive road safety campaigns across social media platforms to raise public awareness. 

ALSO READ: Assam: Police Checkings To Be Stepped Up From 10 PM Today, Eyes On 'Drink And Drive' Cases, Says CM Sarma

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