Open house: What steps should admn take to reduce road accidents?

Better Roads needed

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Ludhiana has tragically earned the dubious distinction of having the most fatal road accidents in recent years. A staggering number of lives are being lost, highlighting a serious issue that demands immediate attention. Several factors contribute to the increasing number of fatal traffic accidents in the city. One of the most pressing is the infrastructure, which has been overwhelmed by the rapid growth of the vehicle population. With more cars, motorcycles, and commercial vehicles on the road, traffic has become congested, increasing the risk of accidents. Poor road conditions in certain areas, combined with inadequate signage and lighting, make navigating the streets even more dangerous, especially at night. Furthermore, many drivers tend to disregard traffic rules, creating an environment where road safety is frequently overlooked. While Ludhiana’s situation is dire, a concerted effort by the public and traffic police can help improve road safety. Proactive measures can significantly reduce fatal accidents and save countless lives. This requires identifying black spots, raising awareness, enhancing infrastructure, and enforcing traffic rules more strictly. Public education campaigns on safe driving practices can also go a long way in preventing tragic incidents.

Novin Christopher

Enforce Traffic Laws

The recent statistics revealing 402 deaths in road accidents during 2023 highlight the urgent need for immediate action to ensure road safety and prevent further loss of lives. To address this issue, the strict enforcement of traffic laws is essential. More traffic police personnel should be deployed at accident-prone areas to monitor reckless driving, speeding, and signal violations. Heavy penalties should be imposed on violators, particularly those driving under the influence of alcohol. Additionally, better road infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, proper street lighting, and clearly marked pedestrian crossings, can significantly reduce accidents. Public awareness campaigns on road safety should be conducted regularly to educate drivers and pedestrians about traffic rules and safe driving practices. The use of technology, such as speed cameras and automated challan systems, should be increased to deter offenders. Furthermore, stricter issuance of driving licenses through proper testing will help ensure that only qualified individuals are allowed to drive.

Akash Kumar

Enhance road infrastructure

To successfully address the high rate of fatal traffic accidents in Ludhiana, a dual strategy is required. First and foremost, traffic laws must be strictly enforced, focusing on severe checks for speeding, drunk driving, and adherence to traffic signals. Increased fines and penalties for noncompliance could act as a deterrent. Second, enhancing road infrastructure is critical. This includes identifying accident-prone areas and upgrading them with better lighting, clearer signage, and safer pedestrian crossings. Additionally, engaging in regular road safety awareness programs can educate residents on safe driving habits and pedestrian safety. By combining strict law enforcement, infrastructure upgrades, and heightened public awareness, Ludhiana can drastically reduce the frequency of fatal traffic accidents.

Tamanpreet Kaur Khangura

Zero-tolerance for reckless driving

To eliminate the increasing number of road fatalities, a feasible approach involving both public and government participation is necessary. Key features include: Stricter law enforcement, such as zero tolerance for reckless driving or driving without a seatbelt, is essential. Installing cameras and increasing the use of e-challans will help in monitoring traffic violations. Driving under the age of 18 should be strictly prohibited, with proper action taken against offenders. Improving night-time lighting can help reduce accidents during the dark hours. Zebra crossings should be provided for pedestrians, and traffic lights must be properly followed by all road users. Reinforcing existing traffic laws is crucial, alongside public awareness campaigns. Road safety education should be integrated into school curriculums, and proper training should be provided to both new drivers and beginners.

Japleen kaur

Speedometers should be installed

Ludhiana city ranks at the top for fatal road accidents, but many of these lives can be saved by taking simple precautions and measures. Some important suggestions include: Speedometers should be installed on major roads, and in general, across the city. A flashing light should activate when a vehicle exceeds the speed limit. Additionally, an alert in the form of a siren or hooter should notify both the driver and traffic police. At each traffic intersection, iron bars similar to those at toll plazas should be installed. When a red light signal is on, the bar should block the traffic behind it, ensuring that vehicles stop and adhere to signals. Drivers who engage in distractions like attending phone calls, eating, or watching movies should face strict penalties. Finally, citizens, both in Ludhiana and across the country, must actively support measures to prevent road accidents and save lives.

Dr Mohd Saleem Farooqui

INCREASE POLICE PRESENCE

There are many reasons behind road accidents, including rash driving, failure to follow traffic rules, driving under the influence, using mobile phones while driving, and general reckless behavior. These factors claim precious lives and cause significant harm. The administration should set fines according to the specific circumstances that caused the accident. Implementing body-worn cameras could also help reduce accidents by providing evidence and deterring violations. Proper road lighting and increased police presence on sensitive roads are essential to improving safety. Public awareness campaigns should educate citizens about traffic rules and safe driving practices. Strict action should be taken against underage driving, and the Road Suraksha Force, under the state government, should be encouraged to carry out its work. In conclusion, heavy fines, along with the measures mentioned, can significantly reduce road accidents.

Sucha Sagar

Intensify police patrolling

Ludhiana witnessed 402 road deaths in 2023, far surpassing Amritsar and Jalandhar. This alarming statistic serves as a wake-up call, revealing serious issues with the city’s road safety. Over-speeding, reckless driving, potholes, and inadequate medical facilities all require urgent attention. Strict traffic enforcement is necessary, including the use of AI-based technology, increased police patrolling, and heavy fines for reckless and drunk driving. In addition, the city must improve its road infrastructure by fixing potholes, installing speed breakers, and enhancing street lighting in accident-prone areas. A faster emergency response is also critical, with quicker ambulance services and first-aid facilities at traffic signals. We urge the authorities to act immediately and implement these solutions to make our roads safer for everyone.

Sneha Bhaskar

Public transport  needs boost

The alarming rise in fatal road accidents in Ludhiana, surpassing Amritsar and Jalandhar, highlights the urgent need for stricter road safety measures. With 402 deaths in 2023, it is crucial to address the root causes, including reckless driving, overspeeding, poor road conditions, and lack of enforcement of traffic rules. To curb this menace, authorities must implement stringent traffic regulations, increase patrolling, and impose heavy penalties on violators. Awareness campaigns should educate drivers on responsible driving, while compulsory driving tests can ensure that only qualified drivers are on the road. Additionally, improving road infrastructure, providing proper lighting, and installing clear signage can help prevent accidents. Public transport improvements can reduce congestion, and designated pedestrian crossings and cycling lanes can enhance safety. The use of AI-based traffic monitoring and speed detection cameras can further aid in enforcing rules. Community involvement is equally important—citizens must report violations, and schools should introduce road safety education. A multi-faceted approach involving government action, technology, and public participation is necessary to effectively reduce road fatalities and make our roads safer.

Parmeet Kaur

ESTABLISH POLICE CHECKPOINTS

Ludhiana has recorded an increasing number of accidents over the years. As a smart city, this situation must be addressed using all available means. The first step is to identify the areas with the highest accident rates. There are three main commercial zones in Ludhiana, each recording varying numbers of accidents. By comparing these zones, we can pinpoint the area with the highest number of accidents, which should be prioritized for intervention. The zone with the highest number of accidents may be facing issues like bad road conditions, which should be addressed by the Municipal Corporation. Additionally, the presence of black spots in certain areas may contribute to the higher accident rate, requiring immediate attention and correction. Furthermore, raising awareness about safe driving and accident prevention in these high-risk areas is essential. The local police should establish more checkpoints to monitor overspeeding and impose fines on violators. Public education campaigns can also play a crucial role in reducing accidents by promoting safe road practices. These combined efforts will help in significantly reducing the number of accidents in Ludhiana.

Gautam Dev

ProHIBIT DRIVING BY MINORSS

It is deeply concerning that Ludhiana district is ranked number one in fatality rates for road accidents, according to NCRB (National Crime Record Bureau) data for 2021. However, with the help of the local government, this situation can be minimized by adopting simple but effective measures. Firstly, individuals under the age of 18 should be strictly prohibited from driving. Violations of traffic laws should result in heavy fines. Separate lanes should be designated for scooter riders, cyclists, and other slow-moving vehicles to improve safety. Additionally, police checkpoints (Nakas) should be set up at night with clear signals to monitor traffic more effectively. A provision for a first aid clinic or mobile ambulance with medical staff and equipment should be available to provide immediate assistance in case of accidents. ‘Give Way’ lanes should be reserved on both sides of the road to allow the swift movement of police and ambulances to aid the injured. Drunk drivers should face vehicle impoundment. Lastly, weekly lectures on traffic rules should be organized in schools and colleges to raise awareness and promote safe driving. These measures can go a long way in reducing road fatalities in Ludhiana.

Farzana Khan

Question for next week

The district administration has launched a special sampling drive to check food adulteration and ensure safety of consumers in the district. What else needs to be done to check the food adulteration and ensure sale of safe and hygienic food to the consumers?

Suggestions in not more than 150 words with passport size photograph can be mailed to ludhianadesk@tribunemail.com by Thursday (February 13)