Assam CM Reports Drop in Road Accident Deaths Amid Year-End Celebrations

Synopsis
On January 17, Assam's Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that road accident fatalities decreased by over 16% during the year-end festivities, compared to the previous year. He emphasized the need for continued efforts to enhance road safety and eliminate fatalities.
Key Takeaways
- 16% decrease in road accident fatalities during year-end festivities.
- Only 32 road accidents occurred on December 31.
- Chief Minister aims for zero road accident fatalities.
- Strict law enforcement and public cooperation are essential.
- Installation of speed breakers mandated in rural areas.
Guwahati, Jan 17 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, announced on Friday that during the year-end festive period, the state experienced a decrease in road accident fatalities by over 16 percent compared to the previous year’s data.
In a post on the social media platform X, CM Sarma stated, "From December 24, 2024 to January 15, 2025, there were 163 fatalities, a decline from 195 fatalities during the same timeframe last year, which represents a 16.41 percent drop. Although this progress is commendable, the loss of 163 lives is still a serious issue. We must collaborate to eliminate each death and enhance road safety.
Previously, CM Sarma mentioned that due to stringent law enforcement, only 32 road accidents occurred on the final day of the last year, and the government is striving for zero road accident fatalities in the near future.
He remarked, "Target Zero Road Accident Fatalities - Thanks to our statewide enforcement efforts, Assam recorded just 32 accidents on December 31 with 8 fatalities. While we are dedicated to reducing this number to zero soon, I urge everyone to adopt safe driving habits. Together, we can make a difference.
According to the Chief Minister, there were merely 45 injuries and eight fatalities reported on December 31.
CM Sarma recently conducted a video conference with District Commissioners, Police Superintendents, and officials from the Transport and Excise Departments to evaluate road accidents in the state, enforce road safety regulations, and review the measures implemented by the Transport and Police Departments to reduce such incidents.
During this meeting, the Transport and Police Departments shared insights into the causes of road accidents across various districts, highlighting incidents involving driving under the influence of alcohol in Guwahati.
He also directed the relevant departments to ensure proper lighting at foot over-bridges and flyovers. The meeting further discussed the challenges of accidents occurring on rural roads.
He instructed the Chief Secretary to guarantee the installation of speed breakers near locations such as schools, hospitals, and police stations.
CM Sarma mandated the construction of two speed breakers for every kilometre of rural roads, stressing that their placement and design should be determined in collaboration with local villagers.