Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Jan 14:
For the first time in its history, Ukhrul town joined the nation in observing the 36th National Road Safety Month on Tuesday. The initiative, themed “Parvaak (Care),” was officially flagged off by the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul, Enoli Kangoo Zuringla, at the Ukhrul Mini Secretariat. The month-long program, which began on January 1 and will continue until January 31, 2025, aims to promote awareness about road safety and reduce accidents through community participation.
During the flag-off ceremony, DC Zuringla highlighted the importance of road safety, stating, “Road safety is not just a necessity; it is a responsibility. The National Road Safety Month seeks to unite stakeholders, citizens, and especially the youth in creating a culture of safer roads for everyone.” She emphasized the devastating impact of road accidents, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens, while advocating for collective efforts to address these challenges.
The event featured banners bearing messages such as “Don’t Drink and Drive,” “Always Wear a Seatbelt,” and “Your Safety is Our Priority,” reflecting the campaign’s core objectives. A significant activity during the program was the application of reflective tapes in yellow, gray, and red on passenger service vehicles. This symbolic gesture, led by the DC and Additional SP of Ukhrul, reinforced the importance of visibility and adherence to road safety protocols.
Eno Ninganung H.S., District Transport Officer (DTO) of Ukhrul, administered the Road Safety Pledge 2025, urging participants to commit to safe driving practices, follow traffic rules, and assist accident victims. The pledge underscored the collective responsibility of fostering a clean, healthy, and safe road culture within the community.
The flag-off program witnessed the active participation of key district officials, including the Superintendent of Police (SP), the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the Zonal Education Officer (ZEO), and other District Level Officers (DLOs). Their presence highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative and its importance for Ukhrul town.
Given the increasing congestion of vehicles in Ukhrul, this initiative comes at a critical time. The Ukhrul District Transport Office organized the event with support from Ukhrul Police Traffic personnel, Hao Riders (a local Bullet motorbike group), and Ukhrul Transport Police, who led a rally across the town to raise awareness.
The National Road Safety Month serves as a timely reminder for Ukhrul residents about the shared responsibility of ensuring safer roads. With the active involvement of the district administration and community stakeholders, the program marks a significant step toward cultivating a safer and more responsible road culture in the region.