By Our Correspondent
KATAKA: Life is precious, and a moment of carelessness on the road can have devastating consequences. Every road user has a responsibility to protect not only their own life but also the lives of others. Emphasising the importance of road safety and responsible driving, Dr Satyajit Naik , IPS, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Central Range, has appealed to the public to wear helmets, follow government-prescribed traffic rules and adopt safe driving practices to prevent road accidents.
The IGP said that wearing a helmet is not merely a legal obligation but an essential safety measure that can save lives. A helmet provides vital protection to two-wheeler riders in the event of an accident and significantly reduces the risk of serious head injuries. He stressed that every two-wheeler rider, including the person travelling on the pillion seat, must wear a properly fastened helmet. People should understand that road safety begins with individual responsibility and that even a short journey should never be undertaken without adequate safety precautions.
Dr Naik also cautioned motorists against overspeeding, reckless driving, dangerous overtaking, wrong-side driving and using mobile phones while driving. Driving under the influence of alcohol is another serious violation that puts the lives of innocent road users at risk. He urged four-wheeler occupants to wear seat belts and advised all drivers to maintain safe distances, obey traffic signals, respect pedestrian crossings and follow speed limits. Proper vehicle documents and roadworthiness should also be ensured before taking vehicles onto public roads.
Delivering a strong message to the public, the IGP said, “Wear a helmet, follow government traffic rules and drive safely. Your life is precious, not only to you but also to your family and loved ones. A few minutes of negligence can cause lifelong suffering. Never compromise your safety for speed or convenience. Remember, it is always better to reach your destination safely than to regret an accident later.”
He further emphasised that road safety cannot be ensured through police enforcement alone. It requires active participation, awareness and cooperation from every section of society. Parents should educate their children about traffic discipline and set an example by following road safety rules themselves. Young people, in particular, should avoid dangerous stunts, racing and other forms of reckless driving that endanger their lives and those of others.
The IGP observed that responsible road behaviour is a reflection of civic sense and social responsibility. Every citizen must understand that traffic rules are designed to protect human lives rather than cause inconvenience. Compliance with these rules can prevent avoidable accidents, reduce fatalities and make roads safer for everyone.
He also called upon motorists to encourage friends, family members and fellow commuters to adopt safe driving habits. Police personnel will continue to promote road safety awareness and take appropriate action against traffic violations in accordance with the law.
Concluding his appeal, Dr Satyajit Naik reiterated that a helmet is a lifesaver, traffic rules are safeguards and responsible driving is everyone’s duty.
“Wear a Helmet. Follow Traffic Rules. Drive Responsibly. Save Lives.”
