DC Drass Chairs Interaction on Transport Sector and Road Safety; Calls for Greater Youth Participation and Responsible Driving.

DC Drass Chairs Interaction on Transport Sector and Road Safety; Calls for Greater Youth Participation and Responsible Driving.
Drass, October 7: Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), today chaired an interaction at the Tourist Dak Bungalow to discuss various issues pertaining to the transport sector, road safety, traffic management and public transport facilities in Drass.
The meeting was attended by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Kargil, Station House Officer (SHO) Drass, other officials, President Taxi Union, Drass; Bus Owners/Operators, transport officials, besides staff and students of Government Degree College, Drass, and Government Higher Secondary School, Drass.
The interaction witnessed detailed deliberations on road safety, environmental protection, traffic management, public transport, responsible driving and the role of young people in creating awareness about traffic rules. Officials highlighted the importance of reducing vehicular pollution and discussed the role of BS-VI emission standards in protecting the environment.
It was observed that Drass is still at a developing stage in terms of traffic and transport infrastructure and therefore timely planning, including proper footpaths, traffic regulation and environmentally responsible transport, is essential. Special emphasis was laid on road safety during the winter season when weather and road conditions demand greater caution. Regular checking of vehicles, prevention of rash and underage driving, use of helmets and seat belts, and responsible use of technology while driving were stressed upon.
Students were encouraged to actively participate in the discussion and share their suggestions regarding traffic congestion, road safety and public transport. They raised issues concerning under-age driving, traffic congestion along the highway and main market, responsible use of mobile phones while driving, public transport facilities and the need to sensitise parents regarding road safety.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said that the purpose of involving students in the interaction was to provide young people an opportunity to express their views and contribute towards improving the transport and road-safety system in Drass. He stressed that road-safety awareness should reach every household and called upon students to act as responsible messengers within their families and communities.
The Deputy Commissioner cautioned against rash driving, underage driving and unsafe motorcycle riding, stressing that helmets and other safety measures should never be ignored. He also directed the concerned officers to strengthen routine checking and continuously work towards improving the overall traffic-management system. He further highlighted the importance of better public transport and said that efforts should be made to improve the electric bus service and other transport facilities in Drass. He also referred to the transport-related Camp Office initiative and stressed greater involvement of students and the public in awareness activities.
The Sub-Divisional Magistrate highlighted the importance of road-safety policies, emergency care and responsible behaviour on roads. He said that strict adherence to safety measures can significantly reduce road accidents. He particularly stressed the importance of wearing seat belts and helmets, requesting students not only to follow traffic rules themselves but also to encourage their family members and friends to adopt safe driving practices.
SHO Inspector Jameel sensitized the students about traffic laws and the serious legal consequences associated with allowing minors to drive motor vehicles. He urged parents not to hand over vehicles to underage children and emphasised that young people must understand the risks associated with speeding and irresponsible driving. He also highlighted the importance of helmets for two-wheeler riders and encouraged students to convey the road-safety message to their elders and family members. He further urged people to assist accident victims by helping them reach the nearest medical facility and stressed responsible community participation during road emergencies.
The representative of the Taxi Owner/Operators of Drass highlighted practical challenges faced by drivers, particularly during the harsh winter months in Drass. He spoke about the importance of proper vehicle maintenance, safe starting and operation of vehicles during extreme cold conditions and greater caution while driving. He also expressed concerns over youngsters learning to drive at an early age and stressed that parents should discourage underage driving. Further, he underlined the importance of seat belts, controlled speed and careful driving, particularly near hospitals, markets and other crowded areas.
The President of the Transport Union emphasised responsible behaviour among drivers and passengers. He stressed that drivers should avoid smoking while driving, use seat belts and strictly follow road-safety regulations. Further, he welcomed the benefits of electric/public bus services and also raised suggestions regarding the proper regulation of timings of bus services, particularly the need for transport availability beyond 5:00 p.m.
While concluding the programme, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer urged all participants, particularly students and drivers, to put into practice the road-safety measures and suggestions discussed during the meeting. He stressed that awareness alone is not sufficient unless traffic rules are followed in everyday life. A request was also raised for strengthening/holding Camp Office services in Drass to facilitate the public in availing transport-related services.
At the conclusion of the programme, participants also took a road-safety oath, reaffirming their commitment to follow traffic rules, promote responsible driving and spread the message of road safety among their families and communities.