Regional Transport Officer Satish Babu urged motorists to strictly follow traffic rules while inaugurating Road Safety Week.
Ramanagara
Emphasising the importance of strict adherence to traffic rules to prevent road accidents, Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Satish Babu called upon vehicle owners and drivers to act responsibly and prioritise road safety. He was speaking after inaugurating the 37th National Road Safety Week at the RTO office in Ramanagara on Thursday.
The Road Safety Week is being jointly organised by the Bengaluru South district administration, District Legal Services Authority, district police, Road Safety Committee, and the Regional Transport Office. Addressing the gathering, Satish Babu said that the National Road Safety Week is observed every year as per government directions, with the objective of reducing road accidents and minimising loss of lives through sustained awareness programmes.
He explained that, as part of the month-long observance, various awareness activities would be conducted to educate drivers and vehicle owners about traffic regulations and safe driving practices. The ultimate goal is to significantly reduce road accidents and fatalities. Road safety is not just the responsibility of authorities but of every citizen, he said.
Highlighting public behaviour during accidents, Satish Babu noted that people often gather at accident spots to take photos or videos instead of helping victims. He urged citizens to come forward to assist the injured without hesitation. He pointed out that many people fear legal complications, police inquiries, or financial burden, which prevents them from offering immediate help.
To address these concerns, he said, amendments have been made under Section 134A of the Central Motor Vehicles Act, 1998, to protect and encourage Good Samaritans. Anyone who helps accident victims is legally recognised as a life saver and is protected from harassment.
He further explained that under the national Rah-Veer scheme, 10 national-level awards are given every year with cash incentives of up to ₹1 lakh. At the district level, life savers are eligible for cash rewards of up to ₹25,000.
