Deputy Commissioner Drass, Imteeaz Kacho (JKAS), chaired an interaction at the Tourist Dak Bungalow on October 7 to discuss issues related to the transport sector, road safety, traffic management and public transport facilities in Drass.

The meeting was attended by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Kargil, Station House Officer (SHO), Drass, other officials, President of the Taxi Union, Drass, bus owners and operators, transport officials, and staff and students of Government Degree College, Drass, and Government Higher Secondary School, Drass.

The interaction focused on road safety, environmental protection, traffic management, public transport, responsible driving and the role of youth in creating awareness about traffic rules. Officials also highlighted the importance of reducing vehicular pollution and discussed the role of BS-VI emission standards in protecting the environment.

It was observed that Drass is still developing its traffic and transport infrastructure, making timely planning essential. Discussions highlighted the need for proper footpaths, effective traffic regulation and environmentally responsible transport systems. Special emphasis was laid on road safety during winter, when harsh weather and road conditions require greater caution.

The participants stressed the need for regular vehicle checks, prevention of rash and underage driving, use of helmets and seat belts, and responsible use of mobile phones and other technology while driving.

Students actively participated in the interaction and shared their concerns and suggestions regarding traffic congestion, road safety and public transport.

They raised issues related to underage driving, congestion along the highway and main market, responsible use of mobile phones while driving, public transport facilities, and the need to sensitise parents about road safety.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner said the interaction was aimed at providing young people an opportunity to express their views and contribute towards improving the transport and road-safety system in Drass. He stressed that road-safety awareness should reach every household and called upon students to act as responsible messengers within their families and communities.

The Deputy Commissioner cautioned against rash driving, underage driving and unsafe motorcycle riding, stressing that helmets and other safety measures must not be ignored. He directed the concerned officers to strengthen routine vehicle checking and work continuously towards improving traffic management.

He also emphasised the need to improve public transport facilities and called for efforts to strengthen electric bus services in Drass. Referring to the transport-related Camp Office initiative, he stressed greater involvement of students and the public in awareness activities.

The Sub-Divisional Magistrate highlighted the importance of road-safety policies, emergency care and responsible behaviour on roads. He said strict adherence to safety measures could significantly reduce road accidents. He particularly stressed the use of seat belts and helmets and urged students to encourage their family members and friends to follow safe driving practices.

SHO Inspector Jameel sensitised students about traffic laws and the legal consequences of allowing minors to drive motor vehicles. He urged parents not to hand over vehicles to underage children and highlighted the risks associated with speeding and irresponsible driving.

He also stressed the importance of helmets for two-wheeler riders and encouraged students to convey the road-safety message to their families. He urged people to assist accident victims by helping them reach the nearest medical facility and called for responsible community participation during road emergencies.

The representative of the Taxi Owners/Operators of Drass highlighted the practical challenges faced by drivers, particularly during the harsh winter months. He stressed the importance of proper vehicle maintenance and safe operation of vehicles during extreme cold conditions. He also expressed concern over youngsters learning to drive at an early age and urged parents to discourage underage driving.

He further emphasised the importance of seat belts, controlled speed and careful driving, particularly near hospitals, markets and other crowded areas.

The President of the Transport Union emphasised responsible behaviour among drivers and passengers. He urged drivers to avoid smoking while driving, use seat belts and strictly follow road-safety regulations. He welcomed the benefits of electric and public bus services and suggested better regulation of bus timings, particularly the need to ensure transport availability beyond 5:00 p.m.

Concluding the programme, the Assistant Regional Transport Officer urged all participants, particularly students and drivers, to put the road-safety measures discussed during the interaction into practice. He stressed that awareness alone is not sufficient unless traffic rules are followed in everyday life.

A request was also raised for strengthening and holding Camp Office services in Drass to facilitate the public in accessing transport-related services.

The programme concluded with participants taking a road-safety oath, reaffirming their commitment to follow traffic rules, promote responsible driving and spread awareness about road safety among their families and communities.