It is a matter of serious concern to note on the frequent accidents reported especially in the commercial hub of Dimapur. In a short period of time several accidents involving two wheelers and heavy vehicles have taken place leading to loss of precious lives. It has been observed that in most cases accidents occur not for any other reasons other than breaking of traffic rules and not following the basic safety measures such as putting on seat belts or wearing helmets. The other reason, which needs to be urgently looked into personally by the Superintendent of Police, is rash driving and speeding. It has come to the notice of this newspaper that there are several speedsters who flaunt their flashy cars by racing and doing stunts on the road, risking not only their lives but the precious lives of other innocent people on the road. The other complaint besides speeding is the practice of improper changing of lanes especially at City Tower and the junction near the road leading to Zion Hospital. In the former, it has been noticed especially at night that some reckless drivers do not follow the traffic rule of going around the clock tower and instead cut into the lane meant for vehicles coming from the opposite direction. If immediate measure is not taken to curb such illegal driving, every vehicle passing through the said area will be constantly under danger of a few reckless drivers. The SP should immediately direct the traffic police to investigate on the above mentioned area of concerns and take necessary remedial measures.
While it is clear that the flouting of traffic rules and the indiscipline of those behind the wheels is posing a grave danger to the safety of the public, the concerned state machinery including the traffic police and other enforcing agency will have to share some of the blame for the dangerous road situation we are faced with today. Accidents are proving to be a life hazard and a major safety issue requiring immediate attention. While no single reason as mentioned above can be attributed to such accidents, the concerned authorities including the office of the Transport Commissioner should take whatever measures possible, within the available resources, to reduce the number of accidents and the casualties, therein. Besides maintaining self discipline on the road, a more long term initiative needs to be put in place through a vigorous safety education program so as to inculcate a safety culture among motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. More stress also needs to be given to road safety education beginning at the school level. Education curriculum in the State should put more emphasis in teaching children on road safety measures. For the immediate though, the traffic authorities should immediately enforce helmets for two-wheelers and put necessary road signs in accident prone areas and junctions. It is also about time for the Dimapur SP to enforce the speed limits as brought out through a notification. It may be recalled that the SP had last year notified on speed limits in respect of various categories of vehicles plying in and around Dimapur Town area. Sadly, this notification has remained on paper only for whatever reasons although it has been learnt that the Deputy Superintendent of Police (traffic) had been entrusted with the task of enforcement of the notification. Is anyone listening?
