Guwahati: The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has initiated a 45-day mission-mode campaign to bolster road safety measures in the state. The move comes in response to the increasing number of road accidents, particularly during foggy conditions and the upcoming picnic season.
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Ravi Kota, with the participation of top officials, including DGP G.P. Singh, DCs, SPs, and DTOs, was held to strategize the campaign. The DGP emphasized the invaluable nature of human life and directed concerned departments to work collaboratively to prevent road accidents.
Key measures to be implemented during the campaign include:
- Development of Standard Operating Procedures for foggy conditions and the picnic season
- Installation of portable hazard blinkers at accident-prone zones
- Affixing retro-reflective tapes on trees, poles, and vehicles
- Mandatory placement of reflective hazard triangles for parked vehicles
- Real-time weather forecast updates via WhatsApp
- Comprehensive preparation of picnic spots and transit points
- Improvement of road conditions at vulnerable sites and black spots
- Installation of appropriate signage at construction sites and lane change points
- Raids to curb unauthorized liquor sales at dhabas and tourist spots
- Strict prohibition of alcohol consumption for drivers transporting picnickers
- Deployment of breath analyzer checkpoints at strategic locations
- Positioning of ambulances and medical teams for emergency response
The campaign, which will run from December 15, 2024, to January 31, 2025, aims to significantly reduce road accidents and ensure the safety of commuters during the festive season.