Bhubaneswar: The State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha has announced special enforcement measures at picnic spots across the state to prevent road accidents during the picnic season.
As per the STA, strict enforcement drive will be stepped up against drunk driving, over speeding, triple-riding, wrong side driving, plying vehicle without helmet from December 30 to 31 in an effort to curb road accidents.
Officials said the guidelines have been issued by following directions from Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena.
All Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and Assistant RTOs have been instructed by the STA to ensure strict compliance with the guidelines, with special focus on enforcement.
Noting that accidents frequently occur near picnic destinations due to drunk driving and over speeding, the STA said tourists and drivers will be subjected to breath analyser tests as a preventive measure. Strict legal action will be take
n against those found violating traffic rules, as per the Motor Vehicles Act.
The guidelines emphasised the four pillars of road safety: Enforcement, Engineering, Education and Emergency Care. The aim is to ensure that people travelling for picnics have a safe journey and return home safely. All arrangements will be made under the supervision of district collectors, with active involvement of SPs, RTOs and CDMOs.
Officials said major picnic spots across the have been identified, and special enforcement teams will be deployed. Checking will be conducted at entry and exit points. Action will be taken against rash driving, overloading, unsafe transportation and illegal use of vehicles.
Permits should be obtained from the RTO for vehicles proceeding for a picnic or pilgrimage. Special emphasis will be given to emergency care and providing treatment to accident victims during the golden hour.
Schools and colleges have been asked to take responsibility for student safety during picnic trips. All vehicles must carry valid documents, and teachers or lecturers must accompany students during travel.
The Tourism Department will manage parking facilities, signage and maintain records of visitor numbers. Road construction agencies have been directed to carry out necessary road repairs and improve signage, hazard markers and barricades.