Ranchi, Oct 24: The Jharkhand Transport Department has launched a comprehensive road safety awareness campaign in rural areas of Ranchi district to reduce road accidents and encourage responsible driving, with around 600–700 two-wheeler riders sensitised during the initiative.
The campaign was conducted in areas including Daldali Chowk, Tilata Chowk and Ormanjhi in the presence of Transport Department Secretary Rajiv Ranjan. Drivers, shopkeepers and local residents were informed about traffic regulations, essential road safety precautions and the importance of responsible road use.
Addressing the campaign, Ranjan said that reducing road accidents and protecting citizens’ lives were key priorities of the state government. Referring to Chief Minister Hemant Soren’s emphasis on road safety, he highlighted the need to develop civic awareness and make compliance with traffic rules an integral part of everyday life.
He appealed to citizens to treat road safety as both a personal and social responsibility. Wearing helmets, adhering to speed limits, avoiding illegal parking and keeping roads free from encroachment were among the key measures highlighted during the campaign.
Ranjan also underlined the serious consequences of road accidents, stating that the loss of a family member could cause lasting emotional distress and create financial difficulties for the family. He urged citizens to follow traffic rules to protect themselves and others.
During the drive, approximately 600–700 two-wheeler riders were counselled on the importance of wearing helmets. The campaign highlighted that helmets are not merely a legal requirement but also a vital safety measure that can reduce the risk of serious head injuries and fatalities in accidents.
As part of the awareness initiative, free helmets and road safety pamphlets were distributed among participants. Drivers were also garlanded and offered sweets to encourage safe driving practices. Participants took a pledge to follow traffic rules and adopt responsible road behaviour.
Street plays and cultural performances were organised to make the campaign more engaging. Through dramatic presentations, including the symbolic character of Yamraj, artists highlighted the dangers of riding without helmets, reckless driving and violating traffic regulations.
The campaign also focused on roadside encroachment and improper parking. Shopkeepers and local residents were urged to keep roads and footpaths clear, avoid placing goods on public roads and park vehicles only in designated or appropriate spaces to ensure smoother traffic movement.
The Transport Department said such awareness campaigns would continue as part of its efforts to promote road safety, encourage public participation and bring about lasting changes in road-user behaviour.
