1. The absence of safe driving conditions on our network of roads is a matter of great concern to all road users. The disregard towards observing traffic rules; fast and rash driving; the encroachment of roadways thereby creating bottlenecks and black spots; etc., have all been identified as the factors leading to accidents. The irony of this however, is that the attitude of most road users is not conducive in promoting an acceptable level of safety on our roads. The lack of tolerance and civic sense by not accepting our individual responsibilities and our obligations towards others may be considered as the main reasons for the sorry state of affairs presently prevailing on our roads. There is therefore, an urgent need to make a concerted effort towards hanging the attitude of road users.

2. The need for simplifying existing rules and introducing a few new ones to be in line with modern requirements — i.e. the introduction of safety belts in vehicles and helmets on two-wheeled transport have to be addressed on an urgent basis. Together with this the need to enforce the traffic regulations in a just and equitable manner is of utmost importance. It is also necessary to seriously consider amending the method of applying penalties to the offenders. “Challans” seem to be out dated. In most enlightened countries the introduction of “tickets” for a number of traffic violations have proven to be an effective deterrent. This method ensures that the traffic department will generate revenue that can be re-channeled into the department for further betterment of the safety system. The awarding of “Points” and their endorsement on the violators driving license needs to be introduced with a view to keeping track of habitual violators.

3. A comprehensive awareness programme to effectively convey the message of road safety to the public is most essential. The media and educational institutions can be effectively used to spread this important message. More subtle methods need to be introduced by motivating playwrights, authors, cartoonists and other prominent citizens to address this issue in their plays and dramas on the TV and the stage, and in their publications. Well-known personalities in sports and entertainment may be used to drive home this important message.

4. In order to effectively implement the road safety programme it is imperative to ensure that the key players possess the skills to accomplish what is required of them. The drivers of vehicles are to be allowed on the roads only after they have achieved an acceptable level of proficiency. The establishment and running of reputable Driver Training Schools in all large cities is a necessary requirement.

As a first step it should be mandatory for all public transport drivers to be trained in these driving schools and are they should be made to undergo refresher courses from time to time. It is heartening to report that the first driver training institution is being planned by ARUP at Karachi in collaboration with the Sindh transport department. Similar institutions will have to be developed in the other large cities.

5. Well maintained vehicles will perform better on the road and it is essential to address this issue seriously by implementing the Vehicle Fitness Certificate programme by ensuring that they are inspected within the prescribed time period. It is an acceptable practice in a number of countries to discourage use of vehicles that have achieved a certain age i.e. 20 years in most cases. Old vehicles may not be mechanically safe in an emergency situation; they are less fuel efficient; and are a cause for concern related to the protection of the environment.

6. The planning and implementation of a comprehensive policy is a necessity in developing a countrywide strategy related to traffic management. Planning for the future is necessary and in this context it is good management to compile all relevant information about accidents. With a powerful computer application programme it is possible to compile this data, which can become readily available for analysis and thereby assist in decision making. It is therefore, proposed that Accident Reporting Centres (ARCs) should be established at major cities to undertake this task. It is with pleasure that we have to report that this proposal of ARUP has received a warm response from the Punjab Traffic Police. Efforts are being made to establish a pilot ARC at Lahore. Based on the level of its success ARCs in other cities will be established which will be linked with the office of the Headquarters of the Provincial Traffic Police Department. As and when required, the Federal and Provincial departments could easily share this data.

7. The handling of traffic accident victims leaves much to be desired -  both in medical terms and the legal red tape involved. The need to encourage and develop Trauma Centres and Ambulance services at all major government and private hospitals is essential. The immediate treatment of the victim within the first half-hour of the accident is the most critical.

The Trauma Centre and ambulance services therefore, should be adequately staffed and equipped to ensure that proper and timely treatment is given to the patient. It is therefore, inconceivable to accept that prevailing rules and regulations applied by the enforcement agencies in actual fact hampers the accident victim from receiving immediate medical aid that he desperately needs. THIS MUST CHANGE!

8. The planning, design construction and maintenance of safe roads and intersections will go a long way in influencing the level of safety conditions on our country’s road network. This aspect of road management has to be given due importance.

9. Last but not the least, is the subject of just and equitable enforcement. Effective enforcement of traffic regulations is an essential requirement to ensure that safe conditions exist on our roads. It is therefore, necessary to provide resources to the enforcement agencies to enable them to carry out this important task. It is therefore, necessary to give due attention to the recruitment, training and the working conditions of the personnel engaged in this department. It is as important to furnish them with modern equipment and tools to enable them to carry out their duties effectively. This includes motor vehicles, motor cycles, communication facilities, speed monitoring equipment, suitable gear or clothing, to name a few. Based on past track record, we feel it is necessary to highlight the fact that due care has to be given by these enforcing agencies to ensure that the maintenance of their equipment is not ignored. Accountability in the maintenance of existing equipment will go a long way in achieving the desired results.

 These recommendations were made in the “Seminar on Road Safety” Sponsored by National Highway and Motorway Police at Islamabad on Wednesday, 31st May 2000.

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