Sirmaur steps up road safety efforts, accidents show declining trend

Taking a strong step towards improving road safety in Sirmaur district, Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Verma on Friday chaired a review meeting with officials from key departments including Public Works, Police, Transport, Health, National Highways Authority, MoRTH, and the Nahan Road Safety Club.

The meeting focused on enforcement of traffic rules, monitoring of accident-prone zones and ways to further reduce road mishaps across the district. The DC emphasised the importance of proactive and sustained enforcement of road safety norms. “Our goal is not just to enforce the law but to build a culture of safe and responsible road usage,” she said. “Every life matters, and even one accident is one too many.”

She urged the police to step up enforcement efforts, particularly targeting drunken driving, overspeeding and non-compliance with helmet and seatbelt rules. “These are basic precautions, but they make the biggest difference in saving lives. I urge all departments to work in a coordinated manner to ensure visible enforcement and timely interventions,” she added.

The DC also stressed the importance of public awareness and education, especially among youth and school students. “Awareness is just as important as enforcement. Regular road safety camps, school-level clubs, and community engagement will help build long-term behavioural change,” Verma noted.

During the meeting, Additional Superintendent of Police Yogesh Rolta presented data showing a positive trend — road accidents in the district have declined in the first four months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. He also informed that CCTV surveillance has been enhanced in border areas and Road Safety Clubs have been established in all police stations and many schools.

Public Works Department Executive Engineer Alok Juneja shared a department-wise action plan to address infrastructural concerns in vulnerable areas. Additional District Magistrate Layak Ram Verma, RTO Sona Chauhan, Executive Engineer (NHAI) Suryakant, Executive Engineer (MoRTH) Dinesh Chand, and Nahan Road Safety Club President Narendra Tomar were also present.