Experts urge local bodies to establish road safety cells to prevent tragedies

KOCHI: Local bodies should set up road safety cells to avoid tragedies similar to the one where a car fell into a stream while relying on Google Maps, experts said. Local bodies can clearly understand the situation.

It is proposed to form Road Safety Cells under gram panchayats, municipalities and corporations. Ward members, engineers, overseers, technicians, public servants etc. should be made members of these cells with the secretaries acting as conveners. The services of engineering college faculty and students can be utilized for planning and implementation.

These cells may work in collaboration with district-level disaster management authorities.

Systems can also be prepared to meet the needs of the rainy season and hot summer. Equipment such as weapons, ropes for rescue and first aid kits can be prepared to deal with emergencies like fallen trees.

The absence of warning signs is a major reason why cars fell into the river in Kottayam and North Paravur. Warning signs that are visible even at night must be installed. This is essential in places like tourism centers.

Road Safety Cells should detect danger-prone areas including rivers, streams and roads. Action plans should be prepared for prevention. Warning boards should be installed. Speed limit boards and speed breakers should be installed on roads. Volunteers should be prepared to deal with emergencies.

Cells at the local body level can quickly identify local problems and take action. Actions should start from the lower level.

--P Upendra Narayan

Transport expert,

Former member of Road Safety Council