Punjab: Authorities launch campaign to promote road safety amid fog
Punjab: Ahead of the reopening of schools, when over 10,000 vehicles will again ferry students, the administration has launched a coordinated campaign to raise awareness about the risks of driving in fog. Authorities are urging commuters, especially drivers of school buses, factory vehicles and other transport, to follow safety guidelines during foggy conditions. The Public Works Department (PWD) has been directed to address dangerous spots on highways and link roads that pose significant risks to drivers, even those taking the necessary precautions. The identified hazards include roadside curbs, potholes, unsafe cuts in highway dividers and poorly guarded bridges over canals and rivulets. These “blind spots” are considered potential death traps for both private and public transport.
Malerkotla SSP Gagan Ajit Singh praised the efforts of social organisations like Rotary Club and Lions Club, which are collaborating with the District Sanjha Kendra to make the public aware. All circle officers, SHOs, traffic incharges and highway patrolling teams of the road safety force have been instructed to ensure that stranded vehicles do not pose additional risks to passing motorists. Local authorities are also working with truck and taxi unions as well as school and factory managements and urging them to advise drivers to follow safety protocols while driving in fog.
Despite repeated warnings, investigations have revealed that some drivers, including school buses, continue to ignore safety advice, with some taking dangerous shortcuts or driving on the wrong side of the road. Assistant Governor Elect of Rotary International Surinder Pal Sofat emphasised that the organisation’s members have been actively involved in spreading awareness about the dangers of driving in fog. In preparation for schools reopening, reflectors have been installed on vehicles and dangerous curves, as well as a series of workshops and seminars have been organised. These measures are aimed at increasing visibility and promoting safety. ADGP (traffic) Amardeep Singh Rai confirmed that all educational institutions have been advised to follow an advisory on student transport safety, compiled under the supervision of Dr Navdeep Asija, highlighting necessary precautions for both drivers and passengers during smog conditions.
