Administration plans stricter enforcement, bridge upgrades, and safety measures
Key Points:
- NHAI to inspect bridge safety and submit a report in one month.
- Auto drivers must wear uniforms, carry ID cards, and follow stand rules.
- 25 accidents in November led to 15 fatalities and 12 serious injuries.
JAMSHEDPUR – A district-level traffic and road safety meeting, chaired by District Magistrate cum Deputy Commissioner Ananya Mittal, focused on implementing robust measures to reduce road accidents and improve traffic management. Key officials, including SSP Kishore Kaushal, ADM Law and Order Aniket Sachan, and DTO Dhananjay, attended the meeting alongside representatives from the NHAI, Education Department, and municipal bodies.
Bridge Safety and Road Infrastructure
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was directed to assess the fitness of all bridges on the National Highway and submit a report within a month. To enhance road safety, plans were made to install helpline numbers, speed limit signage, and warning boards at critical accident-prone spots, including illegal median cuts.
In a major development, the narrow bridge near Dimna Chowk will be reconstructed to meet four-lane standards. Additionally, the long-pending service road construction in Baharagora will commence in December and is expected to be completed in nine months.
Urban Traffic Management and Enforcement
Urban traffic issues, particularly those involving autos and buses, were a key focus. The administration mandated uniforms and ID cards for auto drivers and warned of strict penalties for violations. Autos were directed to pick up passengers only from designated stands, with fines to be imposed for non-compliance. Dilapidated buses at Mango bus stand will be removed, while buses stopping outside designated areas, such as Mango Bridge and roundabouts, will face penalties.
An official remarked, “Auto drivers must follow strict regulations, including wearing uniforms and picking passengers from designated stands. Illegal parking issues at Mango Chowk, Dimna Chowk, and Sakchi roundabout will be addressed with strict enforcement.”
Road Accident Data and Black Spot Identification
November recorded 25 road accidents, resulting in 15 fatalities and 12 serious injuries. Officials identified three new accident black spots at Pardih near City Inn Hotel, Dimna Chowk, and Barabanki Chowk. Immediate corrective measures will be taken to improve safety at these locations.
To curb common violations, the administration prioritized enforcement against helmetless riding, overspeeding, and non-compliance with seat belt rules. Installation of CCTV cameras and speed-limit recording systems on highways will further strengthen traffic regulation.
Safer Roads Ahead
The administration’s strategy aims to ensure safer roads, reduce fatalities, and streamline urban traffic management. Strict monitoring, improved infrastructure, and targeted enforcement will collectively address traffic challenges in the district.
