Jharkhand Transport Minister Deepak Birua has urged Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) to exercise caution while granting fitness certificates and to strictly adhere to the correct procedures for issuing driving licenses. This, he emphasized, is crucial to minimizing road accidents. The minister made these remarks while addressing the National Seminar on Road Safety 2025, organized by the Transport Department at Hotel Radisson Blu, Ranchi, on Friday.
Road Safety & Driving Awareness to be Included in School Curriculum
In an effort to instill responsible driving habits from an early age, Birua announced that road safety and driving-related topics will be incorporated into the school curriculum.
He pointed out that many individuals acquire a driving license without fully understanding the technicalities of vehicle operation, which often leads to road mishaps.
The minister stated that he would discuss this initiative with Chief Minister Hemant Soren to ensure its implementation. “Educating young students on traffic regulations and safety measures will help in fostering a culture of responsible driving, thereby reducing accidents in the long run,” Birua said.
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Strict Monitoring of MVI Fitness Certification
Minister Birua warned against the negligence of Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) in issuing fitness certificates. He highlighted that indiscriminate approvals—without thorough inspections—significantly contribute to road accidents.
The transport department has identified several loopholes in the system, which need immediate attention to ensure road safety across Jharkhand. Addressing these flaws will help curb the rising number of accidents caused by unfit vehicles.
Minister Deepak Birua warned against the negligence of Motor Vehicle Inspectors (MVIs) in issuing fitness certificates. (The Theorist Photos)
The minister emphasized the need for extensive awareness campaigns regarding road safety. He urged all stakeholders to work collectively under a shared responsibility framework to educate the public on traffic rules, safe driving practices, and accident prevention measures.
Government to Implement Expert Recommendations on Road Safety
Birua acknowledged that, despite various efforts in road safety, statistics reveal a high fatality rate compared to the number of injuries in road accidents. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the health department, engineering cell, and other relevant sectors to enhance road safety mechanisms.
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During the seminar, industry experts and policymakers provided significant insights, which the government plans to incorporate into road safety regulations to ensure a substantial reduction in accidents.
Prioritizing Emergency Rescue Operations: Transport Secretary Krishnanand Jha
At the event, Transport Secretary Krishnanand Jha underscored the importance of immediate rescue operations in road accidents. He pointed out the necessity of ensuring that ambulances and trauma centers are always on standby. He also raised concerns about the availability of gas cutters and other emergency tools to rescue passengers from overturned vehicles.
Jha further highlighted challenges faced by accident victims in securing insurance claims due to high legal fees. He recommended collaboration with District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) and Jharkhand State Legal Services Authority (JHALSA) to provide timely relief to affected families.
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Additionally, he emphasized the importance of proper traffic signal placements to prevent accidents and called for improved data capture mechanisms to record all road incidents, regardless of their severity.
