In a significant push to curb the rising menace of road accidents, Kanpur authorities have launched a comprehensive public awareness campaign as part of the 37th National Road Safety Month 2026. The initiative, themed "Road Safety, Life Safety," aims to instill a culture of caution and responsibility among commuters and drivers.
High-Profile Launch at Nevada Toll Plaza
Following directives from District Magistrate Jitendra Pratap Singh, the campaign was formally inaugurated at the Nevada Toll Plaza in Shivrajpur. The event was organized by Bithoor-Kanpur Highway Private Limited in collaboration with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the local police administration.
The ceremony saw the presence of key officials, with Mohammad Zaid, Technical Manager of NHAI Kanpur, presiding as the chief guest. DCP Kapil Dev Singh attended as a special guest, and RTO Rahul Srivastava was present as a distinguished guest, underscoring the administration's collective focus on the issue.
Tangible Safety Measures Implemented
The campaign moved beyond mere speeches to deliver concrete safety measures directly to the public. In a hands-on approach, organizers distributed 50 helmets to needy two-wheeler riders at the site. Furthermore, free eye tests were conducted for drivers passing through the toll plaza, recognizing that good vision is critical for safe driving.
To enhance vehicle visibility, especially during night travel, high-quality radium reflector tapes were installed on vehicles. The gathering also collectively took the road safety pledge, committing to safer road behavior.
Officials Appeal for a Behavioral Shift
Addressing the audience, Chief Guest Mohammad Zaid emphasized the profound social responsibility tied to road safety. "Every person who goes out on the road carries the responsibility not just for himself/herself but for their entire family," he stated. He expressed deep concern over rampant rule-breaking like riding without helmets and overspeeding, despite people being aware of the risks.
Echoing this sentiment, DCP Kapil Dev Singh highlighted that reducing road accidents is a top administrative priority. He stressed that honest compliance with traffic rules is the bedrock of a safe road system and urged citizens to embed road safety into their daily habits, rather than viewing it as a temporary campaign.
New Ambulances and Month-Long Activities
In a move to ensure faster emergency response, the function witnessed the flagging off of two new ambulances by Bithoor-Kanpur Highway Private Limited. These ambulances are positioned to provide prompt medical assistance in case of accidents on the highway.
Project managers Alok Sinha and Sandeep Tomar outlined an extensive plan for the entire month. As per the guidelines of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a series of engaging activities are scheduled. These will include:
- Slogan writing, quiz, and painting competitions in schools.
- Public awareness rallies and street plays.
- Health check-up camps for drivers.
- Educational exhibitions on road safety.
The program was efficiently conducted by Firoz Khan, a recipient of the Road Safety Life Safety Award, bringing the event to a close on a note of committed action towards saving lives on Kanpur's roads.
