Transport Department Launches Awareness Campaign to Reduce Accidents in Himachal Pradesh
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Shimla, January 13: To reduce accidents in Himachal Pradesh, the Transport Department is set to conduct an awareness campaign from January 15 to February 14. Mukesh Agnihotri, Deputy Chief Minister and in charge of the Transport Department, mentioned that approximately 50% of accidents in the state occur on the National Highways (NH). The awareness campaign will also extend to schools, educating students about obtaining licenses.
Mukesh Agnihotri highlighted that in 2023, 881 people lost their lives in accidents, a decrease from 1032 in 2022. Despite a 13% reduction, black spots prone to accidents are being identified for further reduction. A reward of five thousand will be given to those who take accident victims to the hospital, and no inquiries will be conducted. Orders have been issued for the selection of black spots.
Agnihotri stated that a vehicle scrapping facility will be initiated in 2024, with the registration of government vehicles older than 15 years canceled. Six scrap centers will be established, and applications have been invited from those interested in setting up scrapping stations.
He mentioned that starting from October 1, 2024, fitness tests for all vehicles will be conducted at automated testing centers. Vehicles failing the criteria twice will be sent for scrapping. Enhanced awareness for e-challans will begin by March 31, 2024. CCTV systems will be installed on all transport barriers, and strict monitoring of seat belts and other safety measures will be implemented. The first three months will focus on educating people, followed by strict enforcement.
Mukesh Agnihotri informed that the government, upon its inception, had a transport revenue of 500 crores, which is now being increased. Currently, the state is earning 800 crores. Himachal Pradesh has 22,43,524 vehicles, out of which 19,25,593 are private and 31,79,711 are commercial. There are 2811 electric vehicles in the state, with 2412 private and 399 commercial.
He further stated that the government is introducing an E-taxi system, offering a 50% subsidy for 500 taxis. Applications have been received for 521 taxis so far. Charging stations for electric vehicles are being set up, with 17 charging stations planned to be operational by February. HRTC has invited applications for 234 new routes, receiving 1263 applications. However, 50 routes have not seen much interest.
He concluded by mentioning that those who have not paid taxes by March 31 will be allowed to pay with a 10% penalty. No additional charges will be levied, and 50 lakh has been collected. The department has allocated 3155 fancy numbers, generating a revenue of 11 crores.
