Churachandpur intensifies road safety outreach with health camps and school-based awareness drives

In a bid to reinforce the message of responsible driving and reduce preventable road accidents, the Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Churachandpur, has announced a free eye check-up for all drivers as part of the ongoing National Road Safety Month 2026.

The initiative, backed by the District Administration and scheduled for January 30, will be held at the Eye OPD of the District Hospital from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. under the supervision of Dr. Ginthianmung, District Nodal Officer (NPCB&VI), NHM.

The health camp, approved by the Medical Superintendent, aims to ensure that drivers, especially those operating passenger and commercial vehicles, maintain optimal vision, a critical factor in safe driving. Registration slips for the check-up can be obtained from the Departmental Registration Counter. Chief Medical Officer Dr. T Vanlalkungi has urged all eligible drivers to avail themselves of the opportunity, stressing that visual health is not merely a personal concern but a public responsibility.

Today, Churachandpur Police Station, led by Officer-in-Charge Inspector Thangpu Tonsing, conducted a public awareness drive along Teddim Road and Rengkai Road under the theme “Road safety, Life safety.” The campaign focused on the compulsory use of helmets, the importance of valid driving licences, the dangers of drunk driving, and the necessity of seatbelt use.

Meanwhile, Singngat Police Station, under the leadership of Inspector James Vaiphei, carried out a targeted awareness programme across three schools—Lyzon Friendship School, St. Joseph’s High School, and Rayburn High School. Presentations covered a wide range of traffic violations and their penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act (2025–2026), including driving without a helmet (Section 194D), triple riding (Section 194C), drunk driving (Section 185), operating without a licence (Section 181), dangerous driving (Section 184), speeding (Section 183), failure to wear seatbelts (Section 194B), mobile phone use while driving (Section 184(c)), lack of insurance (Section 196), and disobedience to traffic authorities (Section 179).

Particular emphasis was laid on juvenile driving, which under Section 199A carries a ₹25,000 fine, three years’ imprisonment for parents or vehicle owners, cancellation of vehicle registration for one year, and a ban on the juvenile obtaining a licence until the age of 25. Inspector Vaiphei underscored the importance of early education, noting that awareness at the school level could significantly reduce future violations and accidents. (DIO Ccpur)