Agartala, Dec 22 – State Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury has directed all district magistrates and police superintendents to initiate preparations for the upcoming National Road Safety Month, to be observed in January. The directive was issued during the 17th meeting of the State Road Safety Council, held at the Secretariat on Monday, where officials discussed strategies to reduce road accidents and promote safe driving habits across Tripura.
The minister emphasized the importance of involving all relevant departments and elected representatives at the district and subdivision levels to ensure the success of the campaign. Discussions focused on public awareness campaigns, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, tougher monitoring mechanisms, fines for violations, and suspension of driving licenses for repeat offenders.
During the meeting, Chowdhury reviewed recent accident statistics and assessed the measures already undertaken by district-level road safety councils. District magistrates and police superintendents from all eight districts joined virtually, providing updates on local initiatives. Transport Department Additional Secretary Subrata Choudhury presented a detailed pictorial report outlining the council’s programs and strategies for the upcoming months.
The minister also highlighted the need to maintain quality in national highway construction, create pedestrian zones and footpaths, and ensure proper drainage systems. He stated that a letter would be sent to Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari to address these infrastructure concerns.
Chowdhury announced that the state would once again organize the “Jagriti” awareness program in schools and colleges, involving the Transport, Food, and Higher Education departments. The initiative, which received strong participation last year, will focus on road safety, consumer protection, and awareness against substance abuse, engaging students in building a culture of safety.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Finance Secretary Apurba Roy, IGP (Law & Order) Manchak Ippar, Traffic Superintendent Kanta Jahangir, and representatives from PWD and NHIDCL. With preparations underway, National Road Safety Month is expected to serve as a platform for coordinated awareness campaigns, strict law enforcement, and infrastructural improvements aimed at reducing accidents and safeguarding lives throughout Tripura.
