Guwahati: CM Himanta Biswa Sarma has called for stricter traffic enforcement and improved road conditions amid a rise in accidents and fatalities.Expressing concern over deaths during Durga Puja, Sarma urged young people to wear helmets and avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants.“Road accidents have increased alarmingly over the past two years. People often do not realise the magnitude of the tragedy until they lose someone close to them,” Sarma said, highlighting the emotional and financial toll on families.Official records from Gauhati Medical College and Hospital showed 82 road accident admissions during the festival between Oct 16 and 21. Nine victims were brought dead.Sarma said govt would identify and repair accident-prone stretches. He urged people to report potholes, damaged roads and other road deficiencies that could contribute to accidents.“A meeting will be held with deputy commissioners and superintendents of police over the next few days to discuss the rise in road accidents and the need to strengthen traffic enforcement. Given the increase in road accidents, we need to tighten traffic regulations and enforcement,” Sarma said, responding to complaints about fines for violations such as riding without helmets.Sarma said enforcement should be viewed as a road-safety measure, not merely as punishment. He called for cooperation between govt and the public to prevent accidents and ensure timely action at dangerous locations.
