Road safety measures must be treated as priority: DM to officers
PNS | DEHRADUN
Considering the rising number of road accidents in Dehradun district, the district magistrate Savin Bansal has directed all the departments and agencies concerned to prioritise safety measures, prepare proposals for immediate action and submit them within two days for approval and funding. He instructed them to work efficiently for comprehensive road improvement to ensure the safety of every individual stating that public safety should always take precedence over other projects. He stated that every life holds immense value and road safety measures must be treated as a priority rather than mere formalities.
The DM held a meeting with the Public Works Department (PWD), National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and agencies concerned on Wednesday. The meeting focused on initiating critical road improvement projects and addressing safety concerns across the district. The officials presented various ongoing and proposed projects to the DM. These included plans for elevated roads from Nepali Farm to Dhalwala and Ajabpur to Mohkampur, along with updates on road improvement works completed in areas like Lehman Chowk and Badowala. The PWD reported the completion of the Kargi Chowk to Lalpul project, which led the DM to request additional proposals for further enhancements in the area. The administration has already identified key areas for improvement like better traffic management, road widening and intersection beautification. Officials were instructed to integrate these suggestions into their proposals and expedite submission to secure government approval.
The DM also reviewed plans for underpasses, underground parking facilities and zebra crossings. The DM informed that the administration has allocated funds of Rs 35 lakhs for road markings, stop lines and zebra crossings and other associated works to address immediate safety concerns. The construction of speed breakers has already commenced to regulate vehicle speeds in high-risk areas. He said that there will be no shortage of funds for road safety measures as these initiatives are critical for public welfare. He said to the officials that road safety efforts must go beyond the installation of crash barriers.