DC Kulgam chairs District Road Safety meeting, calls for strict enforcement of traffic rules

• Directs to enforce a strict ‘No Helmet No Petrol’ policy

KULGAM: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kulgam, Athar Aamir Khan today chaired a meeting of the District Road Safety Committee (DRSC) to review the implementation of the Road Safety Action Plan and discuss multi-sectoral measures to enhance road safety across the district. The meeting began with a detailed review of the compliance report from the previous DRSC meeting, assessing progress made on earlier directives.

DC stressed the importance of close inter-departmental coordination for effective enforcement of the Road Safety Act and building a robust road safety framework in the district.

Officials from various departments briefed the meeting on measures already undertaken, including rectification of black spots, erection of crash barriers, and installation of road signage at critical points. Special focus was placed on accident-prone stretches, strict enforcement of traffic laws, and public awareness initiatives.

DC directed the identification of all vulnerable locations across the district and the preparation of a comprehensive plan for installing CCTV cameras and adequate signage boards at these sites. He instructed stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns in schools, marketplaces, and public spaces, with special focus on rural and high-traffic areas.

He instructed the concerned to prepare a road safety audit plan, covering detailed safety checks of major roads, structures, and bridges. R&B and PMGSY departments were tasked with conducting road safety audits, identifying and rectifying black and blind spots, and ensuring prompt implementation of safety measures.

Strict enforcement of traffic rules was emphasized by the DC with instructions to the Motor Vehicles Department and Traffic Police to curb violations, remove roadside encroachments, and ensure smooth traffic flow, particularly in the main town. DC also directed that petrol pumps must not provide fuel to two-wheeler riders without helmets, enforcing a strict ‘No Helmet No Petrol’ policy.

All departments were instructed to regularly update the iRAD (Integrated Road Accident Database) portal for accurate reporting. Progress on key infrastructure projects, including Barzallo Bridge and Sakarsam Bridge, was reviewed, with instructions for timely completion. Departments were instructed to ensure installation of road signages without delay, and DC warned that show-cause notices would be issued in case of non-compliance.

The meeting also discussed strengthening post-accident emergency response, with emphasis on enhancing medical facilities, organizing emergency medical camps, and ensuring swift coordination with health services. Meeting concluded with a call for collective and time-bound action by all departments to bring tangible improvements to road safety in Kulgam.