News & Announcement
Road Safety Programme Focuses on Drivers’ Role in Tourism and Safety
Gangtok, February 07 (IPR): The Motor Vehicle Division, Transport Department, in collaboration with the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, organised a road safety awareness rally as part of the ‘37th National Road Safety Month 2026’. The rally was flagged off by Additional Transport Commissioner, Mr Roshan Pradhan, at Ranipool near Syari Junction today.
Following the rally, a programme was held at the Central Agricultural University (CAEPHT), Ranipool, under the theme ‘Sadak Suraksha Jeevan Raksha’, graced by Sub Divisional Magistrate, Gangtok, Mr Mahendra Chettri, as the Chief Guest.
Mr Mahendra Chettri, in his address, highlighted the vital role of drivers in the tourism sector, noting that they are often the first point of contact for tourists. From pick up to reaching the hotel, drivers play a crucial role in shaping visitors’ experiences. Unlike many other states or countries where drivers and guides are separate, in the region, drivers often serve as both. Therefore, their conduct, communication, and sense of responsibility significantly influence a tourist’s first impression of the destination.
He also urged drivers and driver associations to actively support the Nasha Mukth Sikkim initiative by remaining vigilant, sharing timely information, and ensuring responsible engagement of drivers. He emphasised the need for basic background checks, mental health awareness, and collective responsibility to curb substance abuse and safeguard society.
Earlier, RTO, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Dilip Sharma, in his welcome address, emphasised road safety as a collective responsibility of every individual who drives a vehicle. While traffic rules such as avoiding drunk driving, overspeeding, and maintaining disciplined behaviour are widely known, the programme highlighted the importance of implementing this knowledge in daily life.
The event reiterated that responsible driving not only ensures personal safety but also contributes significantly to family well-being and overall societal safety.
MVI, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Sonam Norbu Bhutia, in his session on ‘Nasha Mukth Sikkim Sahayogi Sarathi Scheme’, emphasised collective responsibility in tackling substance abuse in Sikkim. He highlighted the growing impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities, and underscored the role of legal frameworks, awareness, counselling, and community support.
Subsequently, Tourism Officer, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Mr Gyurmee Bhutia, focused on the importance of professional conduct, tourist etiquette, and local knowledge among drivers. He highlighted punctuality, personal grooming, courtesy, patience, and honest communication as key factors shaping tourists’ experiences and reflecting the image of Sikkim. He said that ethical and responsible behaviour by drivers strengthens trust, enhances visitor satisfaction, and supports the sustainable growth of the tourism industry.
MVI, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Ugen Tshering Sherpa, in his session, delivered a presentation on post accident support schemes. He emphasised the Cashless Treatment Scheme, informing that road accident victims are entitled to cashless treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh at PMJAY empanelled hospitals, irrespective of identity or insurance status.
He also elaborated on the Good Samaritan and Rahaveer Schemes, which encourage timely assistance to accident victims during the golden hour. Good Samaritans are provided legal protection under Section 134A of the Motor Vehicles Act, may remain anonymous, and are eligible for a cash reward of Rs 20,000 along with a certificate of recognition from the Government of India.
Additionally, he briefed participants on the Integrated Road Accident Data (IRAD) system and the advanced EDAR (Electronic Detailed Accident Report), formally notified in 2023. The system enables real time accident reporting, coordinated data sharing among agencies, and supports faster response and improved road safety planning.
Ecologist, The Mountain Institute, India, Dr Kishor Sharma, in his session on animal protection and hit and run cases in high altitude areas, underscored the need to safeguard wildlife in ecologically sensitive regions. He spoke on global commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and national responsibilities under the Fundamental Duties of the Indian Constitution.
He underlined the attention required to address roadkill incidents caused by speeding, increased traffic, and difficult mountain terrain, and stressed mitigation measures such as awareness campaigns like the ‘Be Kind to Animals’ directive, improved infrastructure design, and coordinated on-ground action to promote safer coexistence between road users and wildlife.
Motor Vehicle Department official, Mr Thakur Nath Guragai, in his session spoke on the role of technology in road safety and enforcement, with special emphasis on AI based challan systems and other technical interventions. He explained how automated enforcement through cameras and digital monitoring improves compliance, reduces human error, and enhances transparency.
He also highlighted the growing importance of electric vehicles, noting their role in promoting sustainable transport, reducing emissions, and supporting environmentally responsible mobility through the use of advanced technology.
The programme was attended by the Joint Director, Transport Department, Mr Karma Zimba, officials from the Motor Vehicle Department, and representatives of Taxi Drivers Associations from all districts.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Motor Vehicle Inspector, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Ayush Chettri.
Following the rally, a programme was held at the Central Agricultural University (CAEPHT), Ranipool, under the theme ‘Sadak Suraksha Jeevan Raksha’, graced by Sub Divisional Magistrate, Gangtok, Mr Mahendra Chettri, as the Chief Guest.
Mr Mahendra Chettri, in his address, highlighted the vital role of drivers in the tourism sector, noting that they are often the first point of contact for tourists. From pick up to reaching the hotel, drivers play a crucial role in shaping visitors’ experiences. Unlike many other states or countries where drivers and guides are separate, in the region, drivers often serve as both. Therefore, their conduct, communication, and sense of responsibility significantly influence a tourist’s first impression of the destination.
He also urged drivers and driver associations to actively support the Nasha Mukth Sikkim initiative by remaining vigilant, sharing timely information, and ensuring responsible engagement of drivers. He emphasised the need for basic background checks, mental health awareness, and collective responsibility to curb substance abuse and safeguard society.
Earlier, RTO, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Dilip Sharma, in his welcome address, emphasised road safety as a collective responsibility of every individual who drives a vehicle. While traffic rules such as avoiding drunk driving, overspeeding, and maintaining disciplined behaviour are widely known, the programme highlighted the importance of implementing this knowledge in daily life.
The event reiterated that responsible driving not only ensures personal safety but also contributes significantly to family well-being and overall societal safety.
MVI, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Sonam Norbu Bhutia, in his session on ‘Nasha Mukth Sikkim Sahayogi Sarathi Scheme’, emphasised collective responsibility in tackling substance abuse in Sikkim. He highlighted the growing impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities, and underscored the role of legal frameworks, awareness, counselling, and community support.
Subsequently, Tourism Officer, Tourism and Civil Aviation Department, Mr Gyurmee Bhutia, focused on the importance of professional conduct, tourist etiquette, and local knowledge among drivers. He highlighted punctuality, personal grooming, courtesy, patience, and honest communication as key factors shaping tourists’ experiences and reflecting the image of Sikkim. He said that ethical and responsible behaviour by drivers strengthens trust, enhances visitor satisfaction, and supports the sustainable growth of the tourism industry.
MVI, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Ugen Tshering Sherpa, in his session, delivered a presentation on post accident support schemes. He emphasised the Cashless Treatment Scheme, informing that road accident victims are entitled to cashless treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh at PMJAY empanelled hospitals, irrespective of identity or insurance status.
He also elaborated on the Good Samaritan and Rahaveer Schemes, which encourage timely assistance to accident victims during the golden hour. Good Samaritans are provided legal protection under Section 134A of the Motor Vehicles Act, may remain anonymous, and are eligible for a cash reward of Rs 20,000 along with a certificate of recognition from the Government of India.
Additionally, he briefed participants on the Integrated Road Accident Data (IRAD) system and the advanced EDAR (Electronic Detailed Accident Report), formally notified in 2023. The system enables real time accident reporting, coordinated data sharing among agencies, and supports faster response and improved road safety planning.
Ecologist, The Mountain Institute, India, Dr Kishor Sharma, in his session on animal protection and hit and run cases in high altitude areas, underscored the need to safeguard wildlife in ecologically sensitive regions. He spoke on global commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity and national responsibilities under the Fundamental Duties of the Indian Constitution.
He underlined the attention required to address roadkill incidents caused by speeding, increased traffic, and difficult mountain terrain, and stressed mitigation measures such as awareness campaigns like the ‘Be Kind to Animals’ directive, improved infrastructure design, and coordinated on-ground action to promote safer coexistence between road users and wildlife.
Motor Vehicle Department official, Mr Thakur Nath Guragai, in his session spoke on the role of technology in road safety and enforcement, with special emphasis on AI based challan systems and other technical interventions. He explained how automated enforcement through cameras and digital monitoring improves compliance, reduces human error, and enhances transparency.
He also highlighted the growing importance of electric vehicles, noting their role in promoting sustainable transport, reducing emissions, and supporting environmentally responsible mobility through the use of advanced technology.
The programme was attended by the Joint Director, Transport Department, Mr Karma Zimba, officials from the Motor Vehicle Department, and representatives of Taxi Drivers Associations from all districts.
The vote of thanks was proposed by Motor Vehicle Inspector, Motor Vehicle Department, Mr Ayush Chettri.
