UNICEF conducts road safety awareness training for RTA staff ahead of Road Safety Month

In an effort to curb the rising number of road accidents in the state, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) conducted a specialized road safety training program for its non-official members, under the guidance of United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The training took place at Hotel Mercury and aimed to equip RTA staff with strategies to raise awareness and reduce accidents, especially in rural areas.

Key highlights from UNICEF representatives Dr. Sridhar from UNICEF and Dr. Shailaja, Dean of the Indian Institute of Public Health, delivered keynote speeches during the event. Dr. Sridhar highlighted that, according to the Global Burden of Disease Report, road accidents are the leading cause of death among young people aged 10 to 19. He added that UNICEF has selected three Indian cities - Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Hyderabad - for its road safety awareness initiatives. On average, India records 1,317 road accidents and 477 fatalities every day.

Dr. Shailaja emphasized the importance of instilling road safety awareness from the student level. She recommended implementing programs like Active, Bleeding, and Control to foster a sense of social responsibility regarding road safety among young people.

RTA staff to lead awareness campaigns Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar advised officials to conduct awareness campaigns with dignity and respect for the public. He stressed that RTA staff should take a proactive role in educating citizens during the upcoming “Road Safety Month.” The Minister also referred to recent bus accidents in Kurnool and Chevella, urging schools, colleges, and other educational institutions to organize essay competitions and rallies to promote road safety. Winners of these events will receive prizes and certificates.

Officials also highlighted that the central government now provides cashless treatment for victims of road accidents, covering medical expenses up to ₹1.5 lakh within eight days of the incident. They emphasized the need for widespread public awareness about this facility.

Participation and community involvement The training program brought together RTA non-official members from districts across the state. UNICEF representatives stressed that reducing road fatalities requires participation from the entire community, and awareness campaigns are crucial in saving lives.

About UNICEF in India UNICEF has been active in India since 1949, working with central and state governments to promote child health, education, safe environments, and road safety awareness.