Punjab Government Launches Innovative 'Road Safety Force' to Curb Accidents
Introduction
In a groundbreaking move aimed at enhancing road safety, the Punjab Government has introduced the 'Road Safety Force - SSF,' a pioneering initiative in the country. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ceremoniously flagged off 144 high-tech vehicles, carrying over 1200 police personnel, from Jalandhar. This marks a significant step towards reducing road accidents and ensuring the safety of commuters on state and national highways.
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| For the first time in the country, Punjab government formed 'Road Safety Force' to reduce road accidents. |
Technological Advancements
The 'Road Safety Force - SSF' boasts an impressive fleet of 116 high-end Toyota Hilux vehicles, each equipped with state-of-the-art technology. These vehicles are not only equipped to cover vast distances, approximately 5,500 kilometers, but also play a crucial role in accident prevention. Specialized equipment installed in the vehicles targets issues like drunk driving and speeding, addressing two major contributors to road accidents.
Inclusive Approach
A noteworthy aspect of the SSF is its inclusivity, with a crew that includes 90 women. This emphasizes the commitment to gender diversity and showcases the government's dedication to creating an inclusive workforce. The vehicles are strategically positioned to cover approximately 30 kilometers each, ensuring extensive coverage on the highways.
Swift Emergency Response
One of the standout features of the SSF is its swift emergency response mechanism. Any individual in the state can now dial 112 to seek assistance, and the SSF vehicle is committed to reaching the location within 10 minutes of receiving the call. This rapid response system is designed to provide immediate assistance to accident victims, potentially minimizing the impact of critical situations.
Trauma Center Connectivity
The fleet is also linked to the nearest trauma center, ensuring that accident victims receive prompt medical attention. This integration with trauma centers emphasizes the importance of timely medical intervention in mitigating the severity of injuries sustained in road accidents.
Tackling Road Fatalities
The overarching goal of the 'Road Safety Force - SSF' is to significantly reduce the annual road fatality rate in Punjab. Currently standing at around 3000, with an average of 14 lives lost daily in road accidents across the state, the SSF aims to bring about a substantial reduction in these alarming statistics.
Points-Based System
In an additional effort to curb traffic violations, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann revealed plans to implement a points-based system similar to those in the United States, Canada, and New Zealand. Repeat traffic violators will accumulate demerit points on their driving licenses for each violation, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for promoting responsible driving behavior.
Conclusion
The introduction of the 'Road Safety Force - SSF' by the Punjab Government underscores a commitment to the well-being of citizens and a proactive approach to addressing road safety challenges. This innovative initiative, coupled with its advanced technology and swift emergency response mechanisms, sets a benchmark for other regions to follow in prioritizing road safety.
