Guwahati, Oct 24: The Assam government is considering stricter traffic enforcement and greater road safety awareness following a worrying rise in road accidents during the recent Durga Puja festivities, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Friday.
During a live session on social media, Sarma urged people to wear helmets while riding two-wheelers, refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol and report accident-prone stretches and potholes to the authorities.
“I appeal to young people not to ride two-wheelers without helmets and urge everyone not to drink and drive. If you notice accident-prone spots or potholes on roads, inform the authorities so that these can be addressed,” the Chief Minister said.
Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) recorded more than 100 road accident cases during the Puja period, with 114 people brought to its emergency ward between October 16 and October 21.
Sarma said he would discuss measures to tighten traffic enforcement with deputy commissioners and superintendents of police, adding that the rise in accidents over the past two years was a matter of concern.
“We will have to be strict about traffic rules. The increase in accidents over the last two years is a matter of concern, and we need to take stronger measures to improve road safety,” he said.
On October 20, Sarma had also expressed concern over the rising number of road accidents across Assam, citing accident-prone stretches, road renovation work and unsafe driving practices as contributing factors.
“The accidents are surging, and we are concerned about it. In some places, the situation has improved, but in others, it remains a matter of concern, especially in areas where roads are being revamped. There are also accident-prone spots, and we are trying to correct them,” Sarma had told reporters.
The Chief Minister also stressed the need to improve road safety awareness, particularly around drunk driving and failure to wear helmets.
“Accidents happen for a number of reasons. Driving under the influence and not wearing helmets are a couple of them. We need greater awareness,” he said.