Shillong, Sept 19: The Directorate of School Education and Literacy in Meghalaya has issued an urgent advisory on road safety, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance among students, parents, and schools to prevent accidents. The directive comes in light of recent concerns about dangerous commuting practices among students, particularly those riding two-wheelers without helmets or licenses, which puts their own lives and others at risk.

In the advisory, the department noted alarming incidents where schoolchildren were found riding recklessly and without proper safety gear, including helmets. Furthermore, some parents, while dropping off their children, were observed not wearing helmets and engaging in hazardous driving practices such as speeding.

In response to these troubling trends, the Directorate, acting under instructions from the Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety, has outlined key guidelines for students, parents, and schools. These include:

1. Licensing Requirements: Students must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driving license to legally ride a two-wheeler or drive a four-wheeler. Those with only a learner’s license must be accompanied by a licensed adult.

2. Helmet Use: Both the rider and pillion on two-wheelers must always wear properly fitted, certified helmets.

3. Speed Limits: All riders are advised to follow speed limits, especially in school zones and residential areas, to minimize risks during school pick-up and drop-off hours.

4. No Overloading: Only one pillion rider is allowed on two-wheelers. Overloading is strictly prohibited in school buses and three-wheelers transporting students.

5. Adherence to Traffic Rules: Students and parents must obey all traffic signs and signals, especially near pedestrian crossings.

6. Defensive Driving: Drivers should stay alert to potential hazards and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, particularly larger ones like buses and trucks.

7. Parking Etiquette: Vehicles should be parked in designated areas to avoid congestion near school premises.

8. Parental Responsibility: Parents are urged to set a good example by wearing helmets and ensuring that their children follow road safety practices, including walking on the right side of the road and using zebra crossings.

9. Role of Schools: Schools have been encouraged to conduct regular road safety awareness programs and promote the use of public transport where feasible.

10. No Mobile Phone Use: The use of mobile phones or earphones while riding or driving is strictly prohibited, as it distracts drivers and significantly increases the risk of accidents.

11. Avoiding Stunts: Performing stunts or engaging in racing on the road is deemed dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.

12. No Tailgating: Maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead is crucial, especially when following heavy vehicles like trucks and buses.

The advisory aims to foster a safer commuting environment for students and minimize the risks associated with school-related travel. The Directorate has urged all stakeholders to comply with the outlined measures for the safety and well-being of students.

The advisory has been circulated to various government bodies, including the Transport Department, police officials, and education authorities across the state for immediate action and enforcement. By adhering to these guidelines, the Directorate hopes to instill a culture of road safety within the community and reduce the chances of accidents involving school-going children.

Read: Medical negligence in Garo Hills: Surgeon accused of leaving bandage inside patient after surgery

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