A few points to help sanity and safety prevail on our roads
The current mess in transportation which severely restricts the peaceful use of the roadways is of concern to all. Here are some of the reasons for the gridlock which we hope can be urgently addressed.
1. Inadequate infrastructural facilities that are incapable of coping with the ever increasing number of vehicles on the roads.
2. Importation and licensing of vehicles far in excess of the actual requirements.
3. The large number of “luxury vehicles” (SUVs) in use by the VIPs both political and administrative, who have been given almost “Celebrity Vehicles”.They claim these were mostly under aid schemes from donors. But can we afford the fuel bills of these gas guzzlers, the replacement of components’ bills, and even the maintenance bills? Won’t the standard vehicle suffice as in India after independence and just look at what Imran Khan is currently doing in Pakistan? Exemplary behaviour should originate from the top as to the type of vehicles, number of vehicles at their disposal and extension of the privilege to their family members and even friends.
4. A serious introspection is called for as to who should be issued with a valid licence, how long the licence is valid and the circumstances under which he/she can be permitted to enjoy that privilege. A properly trained driver knows the uses of signals and how and when to use them. Indiscriminate flashing of headlights to overtake/pass when the oncoming vehicle comes closer won’t help: where does the vehicle go? Fly past the oncoming vehicle or crash into the oncoming vehicle? These are some of the fatal errors observed almost daily. If trained properly and licences issued only to those competent /skilled enough to handle a vehicle, many a mishap could be avoided. 5. Driving schools and driver training schools have been notorious for being more touts than genuine trainers, who devote their attention and skill to turn out competent drivers who can be given the licence based on their performance at the trial. If the trial outcome is preceded by considerations other than genuine ability to drive a vehicle, then of course the licensing authority as well as the trainers must be brought to book.
6. The Police have an important role to play, ranging from directing traffic, apprehending and punishing offenders as authorized. Often they bargain with offenders and let them go obtaining a portion of what the state is entitled to. The important role entrusted and expected of them is to ensure that the people are safe on the road. This calls for steadfast, honest and dedicated service by the Police, as is expected of them.
7. Drivers must realize that the lives of the passengers who travel with them is their sacred responsibility.
8. Being sober is the key to safe driving. No driver under the influence of liquor or even having consumed ‘one for the road’ could be expected to be 100% sober. Driving under the influence of liquor should be treated as a serious offence calling for suspension of the licence. 9. Mobile phones with whatever enabling device, should not be permitted for use by the driver when driving. It distracts the driver and can cause immense damage. The mobile phone prevents the driver from giving 100 % attention to his/her driving. To claim that he/she can manage while using the mobile is as foolhardy as the claim of the person who has consumed liquor and still wants to drive. 10.Back seat driving is another
distraction. Passengers should refrain from distracting the driver.
Finally road safety for all consists of a series of contributory actions by not only the driver but also the passenger/s, other road users and the state machinery especially the licensing authority, the police and so on.
R.Suntharalingam