Dehradun: The panel discussion "Reflecting on Tragedy: Lessons from the Horrific Dehradun Road Accident", held during the Crime Literature Festival, has sparked a strong wave of citizen feedback.
Moderated by Garhwal Post editor Shri Satish Sharma, the discussion saw Dehradun SSP Shri Ajai Singh taking the stage to address the city’s road safety crisis.
Anoop Nautiyal, founder of SDC Foundation, who has consolidated the feedback into a report soon to be submitted to the SSP, said, “This is a wake-up call for all stakeholders.
The people of Dehradun and beyond have sent a clear message—strict enforcement, better education, improved infrastructure, and accountability at every level are non-negotiable if we want to save lives.”
SSP Cracks Down on Violators
SSP Ajai Singh has already launched a campaign targeting traffic rule violators. In a bid to instill responsibility, parents are being called in when minors are caught driving without a license or helmets.
However, concerns remain over bike and taxi operators who rent vehicles primarily to students from local institutions. These operators, often complicit in enabling underage or unlicensed driving, are yet to face the full force of the law.
Citizen Demands: A Five-Point Agenda
The report compiled by SDC Foundation from 23 citizen submissions highlights urgent priorities:
- Strict Enforcement: Citizens demand zero-tolerance for violations, from helmetless riders to drunk drivers.
- Road Safety Education: Start young with school programs and regular awareness campaigns.
- Law Overhaul: Tougher licensing processes and stricter DUI laws akin to those in the US.
- Infrastructure Upgrade: Fix potholes, improve lighting, install proper signage, and equip ambulances.
- Accountability: Parents, pub owners, and vehicle renters must all take responsibility for road safety.
The Path Forward
The consolidated feedback will be shared with the SSP and other stakeholders in road safety.
Citizens said, “We need to address systemic issues like vehicle rentals to unlicensed drivers immediately. The authorities must broaden their focus to include these enablers.”
As the SSP’s campaign gains momentum, the citizens of Dehradun remain watchful, hoping that these measures will finally lead to safer roads and fewer tragedies.
