Announces multiple steps to safeguard precious lives
The Diplomat Desk
Srinagar, (TDD):Hailing the efforts of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Police, Traffic Police and civil administration in curbing the menace of traffic violations, Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir today pledged full support to the ongoing movement to curb underage driving, over speeding and other traffic violations.
The Association said that the recent Thar related accident has been a wake-up call for the entire society. Traffic police and other stakeholders are playing a positive role and to supplement their efforts the Association has announced multiple steps.
“We are aware that the schools have a larger responsibility. The influence of teachers and schools on students is unmatched and we will be leveraging this position to make our society better and safer,” said PSAJK president G N Var.
He said that the guidelines have been issued to schools to curb the menace of traffic violations. These include
- Education and Awareness Programs: Traffic Safety Workshops will be organized to educate students about the dangers of underage driving and the legal implications involved. This will include discussions on the importance of following traffic rules and the potential consequences of reckless behavior.
- Schools will Invite traffic police officers or road safety advocates to speak about real-life incidents and the impact of accidents on families and communities.
- Parental Involvement:
Parent-Teacher Meetings: From today driving habits and traffic violations will be important topic of PTMs. Schools will Use these platforms to discuss the responsibilities of parents in preventing underage driving. Emphasize that parents should not allow minors access to vehicles.
In addition to regular meetings a Minimum of one meeting per quarter will be held with parents in which the driving and traffic related issues will be discussed. The parents abstaining from such meetings and showing no response to calls of schools, will be regarding as a breach of trust and viewed seriously. Schools will think to restrict admission of such students. We cannot risk lives students and others.
Guidance on Vehicle Access: We will be providing parents with guidelines on how to manage their children’s access to vehicles, including encouraging them to set strict rules regarding driving. - Collaboration with Authorities:
Partnership with Traffic Police: Work closely with local traffic authorities to implement regular checks around school zones, ensuring that minors are not driving vehicles. Schools will also assist in disseminating information about traffic regulations.
Reporting Mechanisms: Establish a system where students can anonymously report instances of underage driving or reckless behavior among peers. - Implementation of School Policies:
Vehicle Policy: Create a policy that prohibits students from driving to school unless they are of legal age and possess a valid driver’s license. This could include penalties for violations.
Awareness Campaigns: Launch campaigns within schools that highlight the risks associated with speeding and underage driving, using posters, social media, and school assemblies. - Encouraging Safe Transportation Alternatives:
Promote Public Transport: Encourage the use of public transportation or school buses instead of personal vehicles for students who do not have licenses.
Carpooling Initiatives: Facilitate carpooling arrangements with licensed drivers among older students or parents to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
By implementing these strategies, schools aim to play a crucial role in fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among students, ultimately reducing incidents related to underage driving and ensuring safer roads for everyone.(TDD)