Junaid Ali
Pampore: A road safety awareness event titled “Safer Roads, Safer Kashmir” was held today at Birla Open Minds International School, Pampore, in collaboration with the Kashmir Road Safety Foundation and the Transport Department. The event was organized under the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety initiative, with the aim of promoting safe road practices among students and the wider community.
The event witnessed the presence of several esteemed guests, including Ms. Mehnaz Chisti (ARTO Pulwama), Mr. Nasir Ali Khan (Chairman, Kashmir Road Safety Foundation), Mr. A.A. Mir (Chairman, BML Welfare Trust), and Mr. G.M. Lone (General Secretary, BML Welfare Trust).
In her address, ARTO Mehnaz Chisti emphasized the importance of instilling road safety awareness from an early age and acknowledged the significant role schools play in nurturing responsible future citizens. She praised the school’s existing road safety initiatives and lauded both the school administration and the Transport Department for their commitment to student safety.
Mr. Nasir Ali Khan shed light on the ongoing efforts by the Kashmir Road Safety Foundation to enhance road safety across the region. He stressed the need for active community participation and coordination between departments to effectively reduce road accidents.
Mr. A.A. Mir and Mr. G.M. Lone also addressed the gathering, underlining the importance of collective responsibility in promoting a culture of road safety. They commended the school for involving students in such a crucial social cause.
Dr. Mehnaz, Principal of Birla Open Minds International School, spoke passionately about the vital role of school bus operators in ensuring student safety. She emphasized the need to acknowledge and respect their contributions. “They are not just drivers; they are caretakers and valued members of our school community who deserve recognition and dignity,” she stated.
The event featured engaging activities and interactive sessions that encouraged student participation and promoted awareness about traffic rules and safe practices.
The program concluded with a collective pledge by all attendees to adhere to traffic regulations and actively spread awareness, strengthening the shared vision of building a safer Kashmir for all.
