Leh: Advisor to Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh and Chairman Ladakh Road Safety Council, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, chaired the 2nd Road Safety Council Meeting at the VC Hall, Secretariat Leh. The meeting focused on reviewing the current road safety measures in Ladakh and discussing future strategies to prevent road accidents in the region.
At the beginning of the meeting, Secretary Bhupesh Chaudhary provided a brief overview, setting the context for the discussions. This was followed by a detailed presentation by Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Ladakh Mohd Nazir Shiekh, who outlined key aspects of the agenda. The presentation covered statistical data on road accidents over the last two years, the creation of a Road Accident Victim Fund Scheme, and measures to enhance road safety across Ladakh, the implementation of the Government of India’s Hit and Run Scheme 2022, along with a review of the report submitted by the District Road Safety Committee, Kargil, regarding accidents in the district. Additionally, the activities conducted during the Long Road Safety Month from January 1 to January 31, 2025, were discussed in detail.
During the meeting, Advisor Dr. Pawan Kotwal emphasized the need for better road engineering, particularly at dangerous spots and accident-prone areas, to enhance road safety.
He highlighted that all Community Health Centers (CHCs) and Primary Health Centers (PHCs) serve as the first responding trauma units in case of accidents. Dr. Kotwal also directed the concerned officials to ensure the installation of emergency numbers and signboards at crucial locations for the safety and awareness of commuters. Stressing the importance of preventing road fatalities, he underscored the need for proactive measures to minimize accidents.
He also instructed that the signboards should be crafted from stone carvings to promote and support the local artisans of Ladakh. This initiative aims to preserve traditional craftsmanship while enhancing the region’s unique cultural identity.
Additionally, he addressed the issue of black ice formation caused by water tankers. He instructed that such vehicles should take necessary precautions, including using closed water tanks, to prevent water spillage that leads to ice formation on roads, thereby reducing the risk of accidents.
The meeting was attended by Administrative Secretary, Transport, UT Ladakh Bhupesh Chaudhary; Deputy Inspector General Police, Ladakh; Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh; Regional Transport Officer, UT Ladakh; Director Health Services, UT Ladakh; Chief Engineer PW(R&B) Department, UT Ladakh; Senior Manager, SIDCO, Ladakh; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kargil; Additional Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh; Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Leh/Kargil and Under Secretary, Transport, UT Ladakh.
