Patna: The Bihar Transport Department has initiated a significant road safety training program aimed at fostering responsible driving among government vehicle operators throughout the state. The first phase of this initiative took place on Monday in the auditorium of Visvesvaraya Bhavan, where 450 drivers from diverse districts and departments participated in two sessions. The program concentrated on enhancing knowledge and discipline in driving, addressing traffic regulations, safety guidelines, and responsible road behavior. The training was administered by the Institute of Driving Training Research, Bihar, where experts engaged drivers through practical demonstrations, presentations, and awareness videos. Participants were educated on crucial traffic sign systems, lane discipline, speed limits, zebra crossings, safe overtaking, and emergency response techniques.
Instructors underscored the essential use of safety gear, particularly seat belts and helmets, to mitigate serious injuries in the event of accidents. State Transport Commissioner Ashutosh Dwivedi noted that the training program is being rolled out in phases as per directives from the Development Commissioner of Bihar. He indicated that all government vehicle drivers will progressively undergo this training to stay informed about road safety laws and government mandates. The objective is to not only enhance the technical skills of drivers but also to cultivate responsible behavior to promote safe road usage and orderly traffic flow. He mentioned that traffic violators are also receiving similar training to improve their driving conduct.
Dwivedi emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing road accidents and identified regular training as one of the most effective strategies to achieve this aim. He also pointed out a specific focus on women drivers, stating that priority is being granted to female drivers and conductors under the Pink Bus service to facilitate women’s employment and ensure secure and responsive transport services. The training was led by Joint Director Jagannath Yadav and instructor Gaurav Abhishek from the Institute of Driving Training Research, with the presence of Deputy Secretary of the Transport Department, Aruna Kumari, and the road safety team. Drivers remarked that the program enhanced their confidence and awareness regarding safe driving, vowing to implement their newfound knowledge in daily operations.
Additional training sessions are planned in subsequent phases to encompass all government vehicle drivers in Bihar. Through this statewide initiative, the Transport Department aspires to foster a disciplined road culture, reduce accidents, and exemplify responsible driving across the state.