Patna District Administration Launches Road Safety Awareness Campaign
District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M officially launched road safety awareness 'raths' from the collectorate premises in Patna on Thursday. This initiative forms a key part of the ongoing Road Safety Month, which runs from January 1 to 31.
Special Vehicles to Educate Urban and Rural Communities
Approximately fifteen specially designed vehicles will now travel across both urban and rural areas of the district. Their primary mission is to educate citizens about traffic rules and encourage compliance to help reduce accidents.
Senior officials, including the traffic superintendent of police and the district transport officer, joined the DM during the launch ceremony.
Collective Responsibility and Critical Components
During the event, District Magistrate Thiyagarajan outlined the collective nature of road safety. He identified five critical components essential for success.
- Safe traffic behavior by all road users
- Prompt post-accident medical care
- Effective management of road networks
- Construction of safe infrastructure
- Standard manufacturing of vehicles
The DM noted that while many people know the traffic rules, a lack of consistent application and occasional negligence often lead to tragic, fatal outcomes.
Addressing Alarming Accident Statistics
The administration expressed serious concern over the rising number of road accidents. Citing World Road Statistics, officials highlighted that India accounts for nearly ten percent of global road fatalities.
Local data from Patna for 2022 revealed 415 accidents resulting in 196 deaths. These figures underscore an urgent need for widespread behavioral change among drivers and pedestrians.
Warnings Against Reckless Behavior
Thiyagarajan issued a stern warning against rash driving. He specifically cautioned the youth against using modified bikes, stating such activities endanger both the riders and the general public.
Enhanced Enforcement Through Technology
To bolster enforcement efforts, Patna is transitioning to a fully integrated traffic management system. Patna Smart City Limited has installed more than 3,300 CCTV cameras across 415 locations.
These cameras are monitored through an integrated command and control centre. This system facilitates immediate action against offenders who violate helmet regulations, seat belt requirements, or speed limits.
Rewarding Good Samaritans
The DM strongly emphasized the 'Good Samaritan' provisions. He urged citizens to assist accident victims during the critical 'golden hour' without fear of legal complications or identity exposure.
"By being proactive and helping victims, 'good samaritans' can be rewarded with Rs 10,000," Thiyagarajan stated. This financial incentive aims to encourage more people to offer immediate aid.
Comprehensive Month-Long Campaign Initiatives
Beyond surveillance, the Road Safety Month campaign includes several community-focused initiatives.
- Health and eye check-up camps for commercial drivers
- Application of reflective tape to vehicles for improved winter visibility
- Street plays to engage and educate the community
Collaborative Efforts for District-Wide Impact
The district administration has directed education departments, transport unions, and non-governmental organisations to collaborate. Their task is to conduct orientation workshops and organize awareness marches.
This coordinated effort aims to ensure road safety becomes a shared social priority across all subdivisions and blocks of Patna district. The goal is to foster a culture of responsibility and care on the roads.
