Imlisanen Jamir
The fatal vehicle accident along the National Highway between Dimapur and Kohima is a reminder of how nonchalantly we take public safety on the roads. The tragic accident on July 2 resulted in the death of five people who were travelling in a taxi which was hit by a truck, reportedly driving rashly and approaching from the wrong side of the road.
Ever since portions of the State’s first four lane highway came in use by commuters, accidents on those stretches have increased, along with an upsurge in instances of rash driving. The incomplete portions of the road, especially along the Kohima-Dimapur route, are a safety hazard for all to see.
Vehicles rarely follow the speed limits set and enforcement to check rash driving is hardly seen. The lack of proper signage informing drivers of the constant lane changes put in place due to ongoing works adds to the confusion for drivers. Further, the haphazard way in which roadworks are being carried out and the inordinate delay in completion of the highway stretch have all contributed to make matters worse.
There are things the government can do to address this problem, such as further enhancements in road safety and stronger law enforcement, but none of that will amount to much if motorists don’t do their part.
One thing we know is that it’s easy to take vehicle safety for granted. People don’t tend to think about the fact that they’re behind the wheel of a machine that can cause devastation if something goes wrong. And they tend to assume that tragedies happen to other people, not them.
So once again we offer a reminder that motorists must keep safety in mind whenever they get behind the wheel, whether for a short trip or a long journey.
Obey the speed limit, never drive impaired and always buckle up. And please pay constant attention to the road. Put the cellphone and any other electronic gadgets away. It is illegal to use them while operating a vehicle in motion.
We have to change a culture that accepts as inevitable the loss of scores of people in traffic crashes. We need to do our part. That starts with each and every person who gets behind the wheel.
Comments can be sent to imlisanenjamir@gmail.com
