The District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) of Sonitpur, convened its September meeting on September 30, 2024, marking a significant step forward in local road safety initiatives. Chaired by District Commissioner Shri Ankur Bharali, ACS, the gathering took place at the Conference Hall of the District Commissioner’s Office, bringing together key stakeholders to address pressing road safety concerns.
District Commissioner Shri Ankur Bharali opened the proceedings by welcoming attendees and requesting updates on actions taken following previous DRSC decisions. He emphasized the critical role of these meetings in reducing road accidents throughout the district. Addressing one of the most prevalent issues—non-compliance with helmet laws—District Commissioner proposed an innovative solution. He suggested implementing a weekly road safety pledge in all district schools, empowering students to become “foot soldiers” in promoting helmet use among their elders and family members.
The District Commissioner directed the District Transport Officer (DTO) to collaborate with local police. Their mandate: conduct targeted helmet enforcement drives at least four days a month across various police stations. The DC stressed the importance of reviewing Integrated Road Accident Database (iRAD) figures in future DRSC meetings and staying abreast of the latest guidelines for hit-and-run cases, including insurance compensation and legal provisions.
The meeting’s agenda covered a wide range of additional road safety matters. Discussions included the proposed location for a new clock tower, ensuring proper equipment—such as breath analyzers, fluorescent vests, and signal equipment—for enforcement authorities, and strategies to reduce wrong-lane driving. The committee also addressed the need for trimming roadside trees that could pose safety hazards. Superintendent of Police Shri Barun Purkayastha, IPS, urged heightened vigilance during the upcoming festival season, acknowledging the increased risks associated with holiday traffic.
The gathering saw participation from a diverse group of officials and stakeholders. Notable attendees included Additional District Commissioner Twahir Alam, Superintending Engineer of PWRD, Sonitpur and Biswanath Road Circle, Ajit Kumar Medhi, and the Chairperson of Tezpur Development Authority.
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