105 drivers undergo eye test

Shimla, August 24

As many as 105 drivers underwent comprehensive eye examinations during the one-day eye camp for drivers of heavy and light commercial vehicles at Interstate Bus Terminus (ISBT), Shimla, organised by the Himachal Pradesh Police’s Traffic, Tourist and Railway (TTR) Department under the direction of Director General of Police (DGP) Atul Verma.

The check-up camp aimed to ensure the health and safety of transport drivers, and enhance road safety.

A specialised medical team from Deen Dayal Upadhyay Zonal Hospital (Shimla) — including eye medical officers, optometrists and technicians — examined the drivers at the event.

Seven individuals were advised to seek advanced treatment at an eye hospital, ensuring that potential issues could be addressed before they impact road safety.

No cases of colour blindness or other disqualifying conditions were detected among the participants.

As many as 91 individuals were also screened for HIV, HCV, syphilis and HBsAg, with all results returning negative.

Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), TTR, Narvir Singh Rathour, who was the police coordinator for the camp, emphasised the importance of such initiatives in maintaining driver health and preventing accidents.

“The event received appreciation from local truck, tempo, and taxi unions, who lauded the police’s efforts to prioritise driver wellbeing,” he said.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG), TTR, Gurdev Chand Sharma, who visited the camp, said, “Such initiatives raise awareness among drivers about the importance of regular health check-ups, contributing to safer driving practices. They also demonstrate the state’s commitment to road safety, boosting public trust and supporting broader road safety policies.”

Early detection of eye conditions, prevention of colour blindness-related accidents and overall health monitoring were key outcomes of such camps, he added. “The state police remains dedicated to implementing proactive measures that contribute to safer roads and healthier drivers, thereby reducing the risk of road accidents and fatalities,” the DIG said.