PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
With 2026 having set in, the Transport department is prioritising road safety awareness campaigns across the Dehradun region, said the regional transport officer (Enforcement and Road Safety) for Dehradun Division, Anita Chamola. “As the new year has begun, the regional transport office has decided to emphasise several points related to road safety. We will conduct extensive awareness campaigns covering various topics, including the importance of wearing helmets. Additionally, this year will see an increased public participation, particularly through the involvement of road safety volunteers. These volunteers will help raise road safety awareness among the people,” she said.
She further emphasised the importance of establishing permanent shelters for drivers visiting the Char Dham Yatra and other sites. “This year, RTO will also focus on first responder training. In this, we aim to compile a database of responders on every road, including individuals from dhabas, hotels and other establishments, who will receive training on how to respond effectively to road incidents,” she said.
Moreover, this year they will promote the concept of “good Samaritans,” individuals who assist accident victims by providing first aid or transporting them to the nearest hospital for further treatment. “Awareness programmes will be launched to recognise and reward those who demonstrate Good Samaritan behaviour,” Chamola said.
The department will also highlighted the government schemes for accident victims, particularly the cashless treatment scheme. “Many people are unaware of this scheme, so we will prioritise educating the people about it, ensuring that victims can receive treatment free of cost as the hospitals will later claim reimbursement from the government,’ she said, adding that their approach this year would be thorough and targeted.
