Our Correspondent
Kohima, Feb. 7 (EMN): As part of the ongoing 30th National Road Safety Week, an initiative of the ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH), from Feb. 4 to 10th, the Kohima traffic police conducted a campaign by distributing pamphlets on road safety measures; and sweets to drivers and passengers at the Police Headquarter (PHQ) junction, in Kohima on Feb. 7.
The main objective of the drive was “to highlight and emphasise on the need for safety on roads” including use of helmets, seat belts, avoiding mobile phone use when driving; drunken driving etc., officer-in-charge of south traffic control of Kohima, Neizhalie Ketsoza told Eastern Mirror.
When asked about the response received from the public, the officer said: “As and when the drive is carried out, notable changes with regard to use of helmets and mobile (phones) are visible immediately.” He assured to “try to intensify the checking” to maintain the trend.
The research showed that the number of road accidents in 2017 was considerably higher comparing to the last three years’ data.
Most of the road accidents in state capital are caused by “rash and negligent driving; and driving under the influence of alcohol,” Ketsoza said. Asserting that there cannot be any specific deadline for accidents to occur, he however shared that “most of the major accidents occur after dark.” He stressed on the point that accidents applies to all classes of vehicles.
The officer also pointed out that the members of the public are “least bothered about their own personal safety,” despite the provisions made in the MV Act, 1988. He felt that the media could play a ‘very vital role’ in creating mass awareness among the citizens, concerning road safety as well as rights of the citizens.
