Agartala – Tripura continues to set a benchmark in road safety with significantly lower accident-related fatalities and injuries compared to the national average, Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha announced today. However, he cautioned against complacency, urging sustained efforts to enhance road safety across the state.
Addressing a gathering at Swami Vivekananda Maidan, Dr. Saha inaugurated 16 new Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances and launched the Virtual Vehicle Location Tracking (VLT) and Monitoring System (MT). This dual initiative marks a significant stride in Tripura’s commitment to comprehensive road safety.
“While our state reports fewer casualties from road accidents compared to the national average, we must not become complacent. Every life lost is a tragedy—not just for the family, but also for the state and the nation,” the Chief Minister stated, underscoring the profound human cost of road accidents.
He emphasised the critical need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, urging the Traffic and Transport Department to conduct routine checks on driving license validity. Dr. Saha also made a passionate plea for universal helmet usage, advocating for awareness over fines as the primary motivator. “Helmets shouldn’t be worn just to avoid police fines. They should be worn to save lives. A helmet is often the only barrier between life and death in a road accident,” he stressed, reiterating that helmets are mandatory for both riders and pillion passengers.
The Chief Minister lauded the invaluable contributions of fire service personnel in emergency situations, particularly their role in transporting accident victims. He highlighted that the newly inducted BLS ambulances would substantially boost Tripura’s emergency response capabilities. “These ambulances are equipped to provide vital first aid during transit, which can make a life-saving difference or help prevent lifelong disabilities,” he explained.
Dr. Saha reiterated the collaborative efforts of both the central and state governments to mitigate road accidents and enhance public safety. He concluded with a fervent appeal to citizens to exercise responsibility and vigilance while commuting. “Carelessness must not be the cause of any accident. Prevention is always better than cure. Let us all work together to ensure safer roads for everyone,” he urged.
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