Chirag Gupta
Patna: The Transport Department has announced an intensive campaign across all districts of Bihar to ensure the installation of reflective tapes on vehicles, aiming to reduce road accidents during the foggy winter season. Transport Secretary Sanjay Kumar Agarwal has directed District Transport Officers to strictly enforce compliance with this safety measure under Rule 104 of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules.
In 2023, Bihar recorded 2,347 road accidents caused by fog and haze, resulting in 1,722 deaths and 486 serious injuries. Reduced visibility during winter significantly increases the risk of accidents. The Transport Secretary emphasized that reflective tapes enhance vehicle visibility, thereby reducing the likelihood of collisions and ensuring safer travel.
As part of the campaign, vehicles found without reflective tape will face fines. Alongside penalties, awareness drives will be conducted to educate drivers and vehicle owners about the importance of adhering to this safety regulation. The campaign aims to make reflective tapes a standard safety measure for all motor vehicles in the state.
The Transport Secretary urged all drivers to take extra caution during foggy conditions and to install reflective tapes on their vehicles promptly. He highlighted that following traffic rules and safety guidelines is essential to saving lives and preventing accidents. “Less visibility in fog, more caution – this is the promise of safety,” he said, emphasizing the critical need for precautionary measures during the winter months.
