BARAMULLA, DECEMBER 5: A crucial meeting of the District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, to review the implementation of road safety measures and ensure compliance with the directives issued by the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety (SCCoRS).
During the meeting, the ARTO Baramulla and DSP Traffic provided a comprehensive update on the enforcement activities conducted between January and November 2024. The report highlighted the issuance of 89,395 challans, resulting in fines totaling Rs. 1,93,48,800, as well as the seizure of 1,361 vehicles. Special attention was given to school buses, with 198 challans issued, 12 buses seized, and fines amounting to Rs. 80,500.
In addition to enforcement efforts, the meeting emphasized ongoing initiatives to raise public awareness about road safety. A total of 62 awareness programs were conducted, and three eye-testing camps were held to ensure drivers’ health and safety.
The meeting also addressed critical safety concerns, including the identification of accident-prone ‘black spots’ in Delina, Palhallan, Pattan, and Khawjabagh. The DC directed the installation of mirrors, crash barriers, and proper signage at these locations to enhance road safety. Immediate corrective action was also ordered for blind spots identified across the district.
To further bolster road safety measures, the DC stressed the need for establishing test-driving facilities and regular health check-ups for drivers. The Chief Education Officer was instructed to organize road safety awareness campaigns in schools and utilize digital screens to educate students.
The DC also highlighted the importance of anti-encroachment drives along the National Highway and other critical routes, directing all Executive Officers and Tehsildars to ensure proper road clearance to prevent accidents.
In a significant development, Minga Sherpa announced the deployment of a 4×4 Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulance under the Dial 108 service in Uri to improve emergency medical response in remote areas.
Responding to a proposal from SSP Baramulla, the DC instructed Block Medical Officers (BMOs) to organize emergency response training for police personnel at all police stations. This initiative aims to enhance law enforcement’s preparedness in handling road accidents and emergencies.
Concluding the meeting, the DC directed the committee to submit a detailed report on the recent Bujthalan Uri accident. He emphasized the need for a collaborative approach across all departments to ensure the timely implementation of road safety directives and to make Baramulla’s roads safer for everyone.