Nagaland DGP LL Doungel on Monday said traffic congestion, which is a regular phenomenon in Nagaland, was not because of the narrow road but lack of awareness among vehicle operators and citizens in using road space.
He said proper traffic management can ensure that traffic flows smoothly and efficiently.
DGP said this, while launching a unique project, “SLATE” (Students Law and Traffic Education) at PHQ Conference Hall, Kohima.
Pointing out that public transport was important for a developed society; Doungel said everyone should be aware of the effective use of road space to make the road convenient for other operators and pedestrians.
Elaborating on project SLATE, the DGP said it was prompted because of the good response received from an earlier initiative.
Describing children as the harbinger to impart traffic laws, Doungel said that charity begins at home and hoped that children will be able to pass on road.
In his brief speech, SP Kohima, Joseph Hesso said that the project was aimed at creating awareness among children on the rules of the road. He informed that the second project “Safe Street” for university students would be imparted practical demonstration on the streets.
Urging the students for use of internet constructively, Hesso cautioned that anyone can be booked under the law if internet is misused. He also expressed gratitude to DGP for initiating the SLATE.
Speaking on the occasion, IGP (Range) Nagaland, Wabang Jamir said traffic enforcement lies between rationality and ethical philosophy and urged the people to ensure common space by following the norm.
On benefits of imparting traffic laws to children, Jamir said that traffic enforcement is a great exercise for children in character building, to respect the law. He said that words of caution by children to their parents prove to be effective and hoped that the message will resonate.
Delivering vote of thanks, SDPO Kohima, Atu Zumvu said that a week-long presentation on traffic laws, cyber crime and general laws would be taken out in the SLATE, where students and teachers from six schools took part.
The launching programme was followed by an essay competition, where SP Narcotics, Jatila Jamir, Dy. Comdt 4th NAP, Kenesa and Asst. Comdt. 4th NAP, Tulukha were the judges for high school essay competition.
The winners for high school essay competition on the topic “traffic awareness” were, first position- Esther Chakre of G. Rio Higher Secondary School, second position- Ruchi of Little flower higher secondary school and third position- Bendangjungshi of Ruzukhrie Government higher secondary school.
The entire participants from the schools including participant teachers were also given a certificate to mark the occasion.
During the launching/switching programme of electronic display board, DYSP traffic, Sosang Jamir said Kohima police intent to use the public utility electronic board as a medium of communication with the general public. He informed that through the board, Kohima police would display traffic safety tips, common tips for women safety, cyber crime tips, road safety slogans, salient points of Cr PC 1973, basic laws and rights, explosive hazards and precautions, general safety tips, Kohima police helpline and traffic offences and penalties.
SDPO & PRO Kohima further informed any schools/ colleges under Kohima District requiring the services of Kohima Police for imparting awareness on Cyber Laws, General Laws and Traffic Laws in their schools/ colleges to contact S.P Kohima through e-mail. spkma-ngl@nic.in or fax No.0370- 2240034 or phone no. 9436012686.