In light of the approaching foggy season, the district administration has prepared a comprehensive plan to enhance traffic management and public safety in Moga.
This plan was formulated during the recent District Road Safety Committee meeting held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner-cum-Chairperson Mr Vishesh Sarangal IAS today.
Meeting included a special presence from Mr. Des Raj, Joint Director (Traffic) of the Punjab State Road Safety Council. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner reviewed current traffic arrangements and issued directives to take strict actions against those violating traffic regulations.
The emphasis was placed on both enforcing traffic laws and upgrading infrastructure to support safer transit. Traffic police reported that a significant number of road accidents result from driving under the influence of alcohol.
The Deputy Commissioner mandated that habitual "Drink and Drive" offenders might face permanent revocation of their driving licenses.
Additionally, legal action will be taken against individuals who damage public property by breaking sidewalks, and informants who report such violations will be rewarded.
He further directed that unlicensed buses operating within the district should be halted immediately. Other safety measures include the removal of unwanted vegetation along roadsides, repair of traffic lights, electric poles, and trees, and ensuring that vehicles are equipped with functioning headlights, parking lights, and fog lights to prepare for the upcoming fog season.
Unauthorized roadside parking will be strictly prohibited. The Municipal Corporation has been tasked with attaching reflectors to stray cattle, and the Health Department was instructed to conduct monthly eye exams for drivers.
The Deputy Commissioner also directed relevant departments to identify potholes and "black spots" on roads for prompt repairs. SDMs and police officials were instructed to resolve any pending "hit and run" cases.
Traffic police and officials are encouraged to submit written suggestions to improve traffic management and infrastructure. In 2023, Moga district recorded 198 road accidents with 172 fatalities, underscoring the urgent need for road safety measures.
Noting that 14 people die daily in road accidents in Punjab and 474 across India, the Deputy Commissioner appealed to the public to observe road safety rules, especially during foggy conditions.
He also urged citizens to assist accident victims on-site and promptly notify the police. The meeting was attended by Mr. Jagvinderjeet Singh Grewal, Ms. Charumita, both Additional Deputy Commissioners, and other officials.