Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network- Mangaluru (VP)
Mangaluru, Jan 11: The Karnataka state police, Mangaluru city traffic police in association with Karnataka transport department and Bharat scouts and guides observed the National Road Safety Week - 2024 themed 'Follow traffic rules, save your future'. An event in connection was held on Thursday January 11, at TMA Pai Hall, Kodialbail.
Addressing the gathering, police commissioner Anupam Agarwal said, "We organise this event every year but accidents keep happening. The numbers last year were the same. We should realise that safety is important and make a habit of wearing seatbelts and helmets and also avoid using mobile phones while walking on roads. Around one lac people die in road accidents in Mangaluru and most of them are aged from 18-45. Majority of them are sole bread winners of the family. It is sad. Even if one person starts saving one life, it will make a lot of difference. Charity begins at home and in the same way, traffic and safety rules should be taught by parents to their children. Young individuals, typically aged between 15 and 35, often possess a sense of invincibility, believing that nothing bad will happen to them. However, it is crucial to recognize that sometimes, someone else's mistake can also pose a threat to their lives.”
Dr Vijay Kumar, vice chancellor, Yenepoya University, Mangaluru said, “They say 'In democracy you do not obey anyone except law' and listening to rules is not enough, we need to implement it in our life. A few days ago, a class 9 girl saved a person’s life by giving him first aid treatment. I will ensure that Yenepoya University will help training young children in administering first aid and immediate care when accidents happen, since knowing it can help you save lives.”
Earlier, the event was inaugurated with the ceremonial lamp lighting by the dignitaries along with special students from St Agnes and Chaitanya special school. The police commissioner also felicitated the students from the special schools. The new traffic rules placards of Mangaluru city were also unveiled.
Francis Maxim Moras, Ramesh Kavoor and Roshan Sequeira were felicitated for their help in managing traffic in key areas without being in the police force. All police officers of Mangaluru city were also felicitated.
Prior to the event, the students of Lady Victoria School held a 'Say no to Drugs' campaign to create awareness among the public. The students held rally with placards around the school campus.