Dateline Dehradun: If traffic rules are strictly enforced, road infrastructure and engineering significantly improved, laws amended, and accountability established, the ongoing road accidents in Dehradun and Uttarakhand can be reduced. These are the key suggestions offered by the general public in response to a request for feedback on road safety from social activist Anoop Nautiyal.
Anoop Nautiyal recently participated in a panel discussion on the topic of road accidents and felt it was important to gather public opinion on this issue and therefore sought written feedback and suggestions from citizens. The panel discussion included SSP of Dehradun, Ajai Singh and senior journalist, Satish Sharma.
Anoop Nautiyal shared that he received a significant number of responses, not only from Dehradun and Uttarakhand but also from New Zealand and the United States. The most frequent suggestion was to enforce traffic rules more strictly. Citizens emphasized that violators should face harsher penalties, and stricter action should be taken against those driving under the influence of alcohol or not wearing helmets while riding two-wheelers.
He also noted that many people suggested a review and revision of existing road safety laws. One of the biggest concerns raised was the ease with which licenses are issued. Citizens urged for improvements in road conditions and suggested enhancements in areas such as traffic lights, parking facilities, wine shops, road dividers, signage, lane markings, and street lighting.
There was also a strong call for accountability. For example, parents should ensure that underage or unlicensed individuals are not allowed to drive. Bar managers, pub owners, and party hosts should also be held responsible for adhering to regulations. Furthermore, people emphasized the need for assigning road safety responsibilities to government officials at all levels.
Additionally, citizens called for regular awareness programs to educate the public about traffic rules, with a particular focus on starting road safety education at the school level.
Based on this feedback, Anoop Nautiyal has compiled a detailed document, which will now be handed over to SSP Ajai Singh and other government officials. He concluded, “We have already lost many lives in road accidents. It is crucial that immediate and sustained action is taken to curb road accidents and prevent further loss of life.”
