The Odisha government is ramping up its efforts to reduce road accidents and fatalities through continuous initiatives. To achieve this, a “Zero Fatality Fortnight” will be observed from November 16 to 30, aiming to minimise deaths via widespread public awareness.
The Commerce and Transport Department will organise various programs across the state, prioritising the four key ‘E’s: Enforcement, Engineering, Education, and Emergency Care, as announced by Steel and Mines and Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena.
In a meeting held today, Minister Jena discussed strategies with departmental Principal Secretary Usha Padhee and Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur to ensure the successful implementation of the fortnight. He emphasised making the campaign effective in saving lives.
Notably, a zero-tolerance policy will be adopted against road rule violators during this period. Strict vehicle checks will be intensified statewide, with guidelines already provided to all district administrations. Regional Transport Offices will collaborate with district administrations, police, and other departments to conduct extensive enforcement drives. Teams will be deployed at high-traffic areas, including crowded spots, traffic points, educational institutions, large malls, and markets. Reckless driving and violations that endanger lives will face action under the Motor Vehicles Act.
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Special attention will be given to identified accident-prone roads. District administrations have been instructed to take steps to reduce incidents there, while road engineering agencies are directed to actively address issues, such as rectifying defects and installing proper signage.
Public awareness campaigns will educate people on road safety rules and the importance of adhering to them for self-protection. Both government and non-governmental organisations will participate in these efforts. Additionally, citizens will be encouraged to provide prompt assistance to accident victims to save lives.
In previous years, observing Zero Fatality Week led to a significant drop in road accident deaths in the state. Building on this success, the department has decided to extend it to a fortnight this time, with the goal of further reducing accidents and fatalities. This aligns with the government’s vision for a developed Odisha, where curbing road accidents is a major priority. Hon’ble Chief Minister’s appeal, “Return Home Safely” or “Come Home Safe,” is being promoted widely among the public.
Every life is valuable, and even one death is too many. Therefore, Minister Jena has urged all citizens of the state to embrace road safety as a collective responsibility to protect every life.
