Govt, people together must make roads safer, say NGOs in Bhopal

With Sunday being observed as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, two NGOs — Bhopal-based National Centre for Human Settlements and Environment (NCHSE) and Consumer Voice from New Delhi organised an awareness walk to spread awareness and to remind the government and the people of their responsibility to make roads safer.

With Sunday being observed as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, two NGOs — Bhopal-based National Centre for Human Settlements and Environment (NCHSE) and Consumer Voice from New Delhi organised an awareness walk to spread awareness and to remind the government and the people of their responsibility to make roads safer.

A report by the union ministry of road transport and highways stated that last year Madhya Pradesh had the third highest number of road accidents in India, with 54,947 mishaps and 9,314 deaths. (Pic for representation)

The United Nations started observing the third Sunday of November as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims 11 years ago.

At the start of the walk, all participants signed a memorandum demanding a comprehensive road safety legislation.

NCHSE chairperson Nirmala Buch called upon the youth to be more careful and to observe traffic rules to prevent accidents.

She also said that it is also important that the post-accident response be fast so that fatalities can be averted.

The participants later walked through Rajiv Chowk, Vandemataram Square and 1100 Quarter Square, holding banners which called for the prevention of traffic accidents.

A report by the union ministry of road transport and highways, which was released in May, stated that last year, Madhya Pradesh had the third highest number of road accidents in India, with 54,947 mishaps and 9,314 deaths. The state was only behind Tamil Nadu (69,059) and Maharashtra (63,805).

Ten golden rules for road safety

Stop or slow down at zebra crossings

Use seat belts so that your family and you are safe

Obey traffic rules and signs to prevent road accidents

Obey speed limits for your own safety and that of others

Keep vehicles fit to prevent breakdown and accidents on road

Never use mobile while driving

Wear helmet while riding a two wheeler

Never drive dangerously to ensure your own safety and that of others

Share the road with all and be considerate

Do not mix drinking and driving