PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Dehradun district magistrate Ashish Chauhan has directed all departments to take strict steps to reduce road accidents and improve road safety in Dehradun. Chairing a meeting of the district road safety committee on Tuesday, he said that all accident prone black spots in the district will be surveyed and made safer. He directed immediate closure of all unauthorised median crossings and asked departments to repair potholes, improve drainage to prevent waterlogging and begin road repair work after the monsoon.
The DM also instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to improve safety on the Dehradun-Delhi Expressway between Asharodi and Datkali Tunnel by widening roads at dangerous turns, installing rumble strips, streetlights and other safety measures. He also ordered strict action against overloading, unfit vehicles and drunk driving, especially in hilly areas such as Chakrata and Kalsi. He said every road accident should be studied to find its cause and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Chauhan also stressed the need for public awareness and directed officials to regularly check the fitness and documents of school buses and other school vehicles. He ordered strict action against people driving without helmets, not wearing seat belts and driving under the influence of alcohol. He also asked departments to improve road signs, streetlights, CCTV cameras and other safety infrastructure.
