Road accident deaths in India continue to rise, leading to significant loss of lives and considerable impact on the economy. In 2023 alone, 18,347 road deaths were reported in Tamil Nadu. Beyond loss of life, road accidents impose significant economic burdens on victims and their families, including medical costs and lost productivity. These challenges are particularly acute for low- and middle-income families. The United Nations in 2005 designated the third Sunday of November each year as a day to honour those killed or injured on the roads with their families, friends and communities. To commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG) chose to implement road safety awareness programs in eleven districts in Tamil Nadu.
Tirunelveli
On November 6th, 2024, a road safety awareness program took place at the Sankar Polytechnic College in Tirunelveli. The event saw participation from 120 students and several dignitaries. S. Selvaraj, the project officer at the college, delivered the opening speech, followed by keynote addresses from Dr. A. Sankarasubramanian and Mr. R. Srinivasan, the college's administrative officer.
After the introduction, animation videos highlighting road safety were shown, emphasising the importance of wearing helmets, adhering to speed limits, and avoiding drunk driving. Additionally, a short film illustrated the consequences of accidents resulting from varying speeds. In 2023, Tirunelveli reported 415 road fatalities and 1,531 road accidents, averaging four accidents and one death per day. A survey conducted by CAG in Tirunelveli found that only 73.2% of vehicle riders wore helmets, and just 53.9% of children were using helmets.
Subsequently, the chief guests spoke on common traffic laws, traffic violations, and the repercussions of falling foul of these. The chief guests included the college Principal Dr. Sankarasubramanian, District Transport Officer Mr. Chandrasekaran, Deputy Superintendent of Police Mr. Raghupati Raja, and Mr. V. Saleem, a member of the District Road Safety Committee, along with various other officials from RTO office.
Additionally, attendees listened to testimonies from those affected by road accidents to understand the consequences of undisciplined road use. The Tirunelveli Regional Transport Office (RTO) also provided a banner on road rules to the college and distributed leaflets about road safety to the college students.
To conclude the event, the chief guests awarded prizes to the winners of an essay writing competition on road safety. The gathering wrapped up with everyone taking a pledge to promote safer road behaviours. In conclusion, Mr. Siva Selvam, NSS program officer, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Mr. Raghupati Raja awards prizes to the winners of the essay competition.
Salem
On November 5th in Salem, an awareness program was held at the School of Allied Health Sciences, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Salem), in observance of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. The event was inaugurated by their Dean Dr. Senthil Kumar, followed by a welcome speech by Mr. J.M Boopathi from the Consumer Rights Movement, who also discussed the activities of CAG. Subsequently, Mr. Damodharan, the Salem East RTO in charge, delivered an awareness speech. Rotary Governor Elect Er. Sivasundaram also attended the event. Attendees included 200 students and members of the Consumer Rights Movement. During this gathering, students were educated about the significance of road safety and their responsibilities in adhering to road rules. In 2023 alone, Salem recorded 797 road fatalities. A survey conducted in Salem found that 66% of adults and 69% of the children wore helmets. Road safety awareness videos were also played at the event. The event concluded with students taking a pledge to promote safer road behaviour.
Poster making competition conducted by the School of Allied Health Sciences, Vinayaka Mission's Research Foundation (Salem) in observance of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims.
Tiruvarur
The Tamil Nadu Consumer Protection and Environmental Research Centre, in collaboration with the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group, organised an awareness event at Global College of Arts and Science, Ammaiappan to mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims on 28th October 2024. The event was held under the leadership of the Centre’s Chairman, Mr. P. Alagirisamy, and was attended by the College’s Correspondent, Mr. Thiagapari, and the Centre’s Executive Secretary, Professor A. Baskaran. The Centre’s General Secretary, Mr. Ramesh, welcomed the gathering.
Mr. K. Thirunavukkarasu, the Centre’s State Coordinator, gave an introductory speech outlining the significance of the event. He highlighted the alarming rise in road traffic deaths in India, especially due to speeding and inadequate road infrastructure. In 2023, Tiruvarur recorded 227 road fatalities and 893 road accidents, averaging about 2 accidents daily. A survey conducted by CAG in Tiruvarur found that only 23% of vehicle riders wore helmets, while only 3% of children wore helmets.These findings were later shared with the participants of this event.
The event began with a session on common traffic violations and the importance of shared responsibility in road safety. Mr. Saravanakumar, Police officer from Tiruvarur, discussed the importance of wearing helmets, obeying speed limits, and never driving under the influence of alcohol. Two animated videos on road safety on the importance of wearing helmets and the impact of high-speed crashes were screened. Testimonies from accident survivors further reinforced the need for increased road safety awareness and accountability. The event concluded with a pledge to adopt safer driving practices and advocating for safer roads.
The event was attended by several notable individuals, including the Director of Food Services Mr. Ravichandran, chemist Mr. Akilan, students, faculty members, and staff of the college. The program ended with a vote of thanks by the Training Coordinator, Mr. Selvakumar.
Mr. Saravanakumar, Police officer from Thiruvarur, addressing students at the WDoR event at the Global College of Arts and Science in Thiruvarur.
Thiruvanamalai
An average of five road accidents occur daily in Thiruvannamalai, with at least one resulting in a fatality. In honour of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, an awareness program took place at Indian Arts & Science College on November 5th, 2024. Around 120 students participated, gaining insights into the importance of road safety. Notable guests included Mr. M. Elangovan, Principal of Indian Arts & Science College, Mr. J. Velu, Administrator of the Indian Arts & Science College, Mr. J. Manikandan, NSS program officer of Indian Arts & Science College, along with other members from SINAM CSO. The speakers highlighted that in 2023 alone Thiruvanamalai recorded 697 deaths. A survey conducted in Thiruvannamalai found that only 7% of vehicle riders wore helmets, and only 1% children were using helmets. The event featured two animated videos highlighting the significance of road safety, the dangers of speeding, and essential measures to ensure our safety on roads. The event concluded with everyone taking a pledge to work towards creating safer roads for all.
The students and staff members making a pledge during the WDoR event in Thiruvannamalai.
Cuddalore
On November 12th, an awareness event was held at C.K College of Engineering and Technology to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. The event focused on various aspects of road safety, educating students on how to stay safe while on the road. To enhance understanding, animated videos illustrating road safety concepts were also presented.
The event commenced with a welcome address by T. Arulselvam, Chairman of Tamil Nadu Consumer Education and Development Foundation (TAMCED). The inaugural address was delivered by Ms. Abinaya Elanchezhian, Revenue Divisional Officer of Cuddalore. Special addresses were given by Mr. G. Arunachalam, Regional Transport Officer of Cuddalore, and Mr. S. Amarnath, Inspector of Police in Cuddalore. Speakers highlighted that In 2023 alone, Tamil Nadu recorded 18,347 road fatalities, with 720 deaths in Cuddalore. A survey conducted in Cuddalore found that only 20.8% of vehicle riders wore helmets, and only 5.8% children were using helmets. Approximately 100 students, faculty, and staff members participated in this important event. It concluded with a collective pledge to adhere to road rules and ensure safety for all road users.
Mr. S. Amarnath, Inspector of Police, addressing students at the WDoR event at the C.K.College of Engineering and Technology in Cuddalore.
Coimbatore
To commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a road safety awareness event took place at Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Science on Monday, November 21, 2024. In his keynote address, Mr. S. Balamurugan, RTO South, informed the large gathering of students about the various factors contributing to road fatalities. He emphasised that many accidents, particularly head injuries and fatalities, are primarily due to the failure to wear helmets and other unsafe driving behaviours as seen across the country. In Coimbatore, an average of three deaths occur daily, a figure that is alarmingly high compared to other cities; however, this can be mitigated through self-discipline.
In his speech, CM Jayaraman, President of Citizens Voice Coimbatore (CVC), emphasised the significance of helmet usage for pillion riders. During vote of thanks, Mr. M. Rajendran highlighted from a survey he conducted with NGM students from Pollachi that, while approximately 76% of two-wheeler riders wear helmets, no children were surveyed wearing helmets in the cities where the survey was done. In 2023, Coimbatore recorded a total of 3,657 accidents, including 1,044 road incidents. This translates to an average of 10 accidents each day and approximately 3 fatalities due to accidents daily, holding first position across the state. The helmet compliance study carried out by CAG in Coimbatore found that 23% of adults and 100% of children do not wear helmets. These results were shared with the participants at the event. He also noted that many children do not wear helmets, mainly due to their limited availability in the market. The event wrapped up with the CVC president presenting a shawl to the guest, while the college principal gave mementos.
Mr. S. Balamurugan, RTO South, addressing students during the WDoR event held in Bishop Appasamy College of Arts and Science in Coimbatore.
Trichy
A road safety awareness program took place at the VT Skill Training Institute in Trichy district on November 20th, in honour of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims 2024. The event was initiated by Mr. Chanduru from SEEDS Trust, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the significance of this day. Among special guests was Mr. Udhayakumar, the Traffic Police Inspector from the Kulithalai Traffic Police Station, who presided over the program. He delivered a speech emphasising the importance of wearing helmets, adhering to speed limits, and avoiding drunk driving. He highlighted that in 2023, Trichy reported a total of 2,426 accidents and 720 road fatalities, averaging 7 accidents and 2 road fatalities each day. The helmet compliance study carried out by CAG in Trichy found that 83% of adults and 100% of children do not wear helmets. The event concluded with a collective pledge to encourage safe road practices and work towards safer roads for everyone.
Participants taking a pledge during the World Day of Remembrance event at the VT Skill Training Institute in Trichy.
Madurai
A road safety awareness initiative was conducted for the students of Annai Fathima College in Thirumangalam, Madurai district, in observance of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims in 2024. Given the concerning frequency of road accidents in India, this observance holds particular significance for Indian road users. It acts as a vital reminder of our shared responsibility to foster safer road conditions.
The event was collaboratively organized by the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), Aura Foundation, and Jeeva Anbalayam Foundation. The Managing Trustee of Aara Public Welfare Trust, along with Tirumangalam Traffic Police Assistant Inspector Thiruvalar, attended the occasion.
Mr. Senthilkumar and Mrs. Kavitha, professors in the Department of Tourism Management at Annai Fathima College, participated in the event, emphasizing the importance of road safety to the students. During their speeches, the special guests encouraged students to consistently adhere to road safety regulations, highlighting that both motorists and pedestrians, along with footpath users, are impacted. Speakers highlighted that in 2023, Madurai recorded 2,660 road accidents and 890 fatalities, with an average of 7 accidents and 2 fatalities each day. A survey carried out in Madurai by CAG revealed that only 17% of vehicle riders were wearing helmets, and none of the children were wearing helmets. At the conclusion of the program, all the participants took a collective pledge to promote safer roads.
Participants taking a pledge during the World Day of Remembrance event at Annai Fathima College in Thirumangalam, Madurai district.
Chengalpet
An awareness program was held at Prince Sri Venkateswara College of Arts and Science in Chengalpattu district to commemorate the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. In 2023, Chengalpet recorded 3402 road accidents and 936 road fatalities, with an average of 9 accidents per day and 3 accidental deaths per day. A survey conducted by CAG in Chengalpet found that only 18.3% of vehicle riders wore helmets, and no children were using helmets.
The event was co-organized by the Citizen consumer and civic Action Group (CAG), FEMA Foundation, and Prince Sri Venkateswara College of Arts and Science. It featured notable attendees, including Mr. Udayakumar, Founding Trustee of FEMA Foundation; Mr. Mohan, Advocate at Madras High Court and Community Mobilizer for CAG; and Mrs. Victoria, Head of the Department of Commerce at the college. The program included an animated video highlighting road safety practices, such as the importance of wearing helmets, adhering to speed limits, and avoiding drunk driving, along with a video illustrating the effects of accidents at various speeds. Participants listened to testimonies from road accident survivors, which emphasised the necessity for awareness and responsibility on the road. The event concluded with a pledge to commit to safe road behaviour and work towards creating safer roads.
Students watching animated videos on road safety during the WDoR event held at Prince Venkateshwara College of Arts and Science in Chengalpet.
Kancheepuram
To mark the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, a road safety awareness program took place on November 16th, 2024 at Indira Gandhi College of Education in Kanchipuram. The event was chaired by the college Principal, N. Krishna Priya, and featured a special address by Sub-Inspector Mahendran from the D-4 Patalam Police Station, who highlighted the significance of road safety.
At the start of the event, the Principal warmly welcomed the special guests and discussed the challenges faced by victims of road accidents and their families. Sub-Inspector Mahendran stressed the critical importance of wearing helmets and adhering to traffic regulations, emphasising that driving without a helmet or under the influence of alcohol is illegal and should be strictly avoided. In 2023, Kancheepuram recorded 1039 road accidents and 297 road fatalities, with an average of 3 accidents per day and 1 accidental death per day. A survey conducted by CAG in Kancheepuram found that only 14.9% of vehicle riders wore helmets, and no children were using helmets. The event attracted a significant number of attendees from the village and the wider community, who all gained valuable insights from the discussions. It wrapped up with participants making a collective pledge to promote safer roads.
Sub Inspector Mahendran from Pattalam Police station addressing students during the WDoR event held in Indra Gandhi College of Education in Kancheepuram.