PANAJI
An analysis of traffic fatalities for the first nine months of 2022 shows that 195 people died in motor vehicle accidents in the State. This represents an increase of about 21.53 per cent as compared to 153 deaths in the corresponding period last year.
A significant rise in accidents and fatalities has prompted the State government to chalk out a ‘Road Safety Management Plan’ by incorporating suggestions from the general public.
Superintendent of Police Dharmesh Angle, who is currently holding the charge of Deputy SP (South Goa Traffic), has informed the government has slated an Open Forum at the Institute Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji on Friday wherein suggestions from the public will be taken into consideration to prepare the Plan for the State in order to minimize road accidents.
“The general public is invited to suggest various ways to reduce accidents and fatalities. All the concerned stakeholders will also attend the forum to record the suggestions,” Angle said while addressing a joint press conference with Transport Director Rajan Satardekar and other officials at Traffic Cell Headquarters on Tuesday. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will be a part of the day-long forum.
Records indicate that the current year till September 30, 2022, witnessed 2,244 accidents of which 179 were fatal whereas last year’s corresponding period saw 1969 accidents, 148 accidents, and 153 deaths. The figures show that the current year has registered an increase of 275 accidents, 31 fatal accidents, and 42 deaths.
The year saw one of the horrific accidents wherein four locals including a woman were killed after a speeding SUV rammed into the Zuari bridge railings and plunged into the river in the wee hours of July 28.
The SUV, en route to Panaji, had tried to overtake a car over the bridge when the driver lost control and fell into the river. Navy divers pulled the vehicle out of the waters after a 12-hour-long operation and rescuers had to cut its doors to retrieve the four bodies. The statistics also include fatal accidents at the infamous Chimbel junction.
Goa Police has booked 3,87,629 violations and collected a fine of Rs13,46,11,300 from the traffic violators. Satardekar said the enforcement agencies collect around Rs 1 crore towards fines per month and insisted the vehicle users abide by the traffic laws to avoid fines and to ensure their own safety and that of others.
The Traffic Cell has advised pillion riders to also wear helmets while citing existing laws. “Pillion riders must wear a helmet. Violators will be fined,” Angle warned.
