National Road Safety Month 2025 Observed in Rayagada
Rayagada, January 31: The National Road Safety Month-2025 was marked with a grand celebration today at the Biju Patnaik Auditorium, Rayagada. The event aimed to promote awareness about road safety and reduce the increasing number of accidents in the region.
The Rayagada District Collector, Mrs. Parul Patwari, graced the occasion as the chief guest and emphasized the alarming fact that India accounts for 30% of global road accidents. Highlighting the issue, she said, “Accidents are not limited to cities; they are equally prevalent in rural areas. Intoxication, over speeding, and mental instability while driving are the primary causes. Awareness and responsibility are key to mitigating these risks.”
Students, as future citizens, were encouraged to contribute to the nation by adhering to road safety practices. Superintendent of Police Swati S. Kumar, another esteemed guest, stressed the importance of safety measures like wearing seat belts and helmets. “Road safety ensures family protection. An accident does not just claim an individual’s life; it devastates entire families,” she remarked.
The program highlighted the need to avoid drunk driving, mobile phone usage while driving, and unauthorized parking. The officials announced stringent measures, including revoking licenses for violations. Students were also urged to remind their parents about seat belt and helmet usage to instill road safety habits within families.
The event was chaired by District Transport Officer Mr. Shiv Shankar Chaudhury, with the active participation of Mr. Raj Kumar Behera, Additional RTO, and other transport department officials. District Collector Mr. Nihar Kahanra and Additional Superintendent of Police Mr. Vishnu Prasad Patra delivered motivational speeches, inspiring the audience to contribute to road safety initiatives.
The month-long Road Safety Month, observed from January 1 to January 31, featured various awareness programs such as processions, blood donation camps, and eye examination drives. Organized under the supervision of RTO Mr. Shiva Shankar Chaudhury, the initiatives witnessed active participation from bus and truck owners’ associations, auto unions, driver unions, and students.
During the event, it was noted that road accidents are equally prevalent in rural areas, where access to primary medical care is often a challenge. Public awareness efforts during the month have been instrumental in promoting safe driving practices and reducing accidents in the district.
The observance concluded on a hopeful note, emphasizing the collective responsibility of citizens and authorities to make roads safer for all.
Rayagada news by C. B. Singh
