Tripura to Introduce Speed Trackers for Commercial Vehicles: CM Manik Saha

In a significant step towards enhancing road safety, Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha on Wednesday announced that speed tracking systems will soon be installed at key locations across the state. These systems aim to monitor and penalize cases of over-speeding, especially by commercial transport vehicles, which are often involved in road accidents due to reckless driving.

Dr. Saha made this announcement during the launch event of 16 newly procured Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances. Addressing the gathering, he expressed deep concern over the increasing number of road accidents caused by negligent driving. “Public transport vehicles carry human lives. Any lapse can lead to fatal consequences. That is why the government is working on a system that will automatically penalize drivers violating speed limits through heavy fines,” he stated. His remarks emphasized the urgent need for accountability in the transport sector to safeguard public safety.

Taking the issue of road safety further, the Chief Minister also proposed mandatory periodic fitness checks for all vehicles. He noted that mechanical failures are a leading cause of accidents and pointed out that many vehicle owners ignore the importance of routine maintenance. Dr. Saha stated that the state government is seriously considering implementing legislation to make such fitness checks compulsory in the near future.

Addressing another major concern — the damage caused to highways by overloaded trucks — Dr. Saha informed that central road transport authorities had recently conducted inspections across Tripura. The findings confirmed the state government's concerns: overloaded trucks are significantly damaging the state’s road infrastructure. He emphasized the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to curb this problem and preserve the quality and longevity of roadways.

The Chief Minister also raised the issue of liquor shops operating in close proximity to highways, which is a violation of existing laws. He revealed that he regularly reports these violations to the Finance Minister and called for prompt action. “These laws were made for a reason — to save lives. Their spirit must be honored and enforced,” he asserted. In the same vein, he urged the police department to take stronger action to enforce the double-helmet rule, particularly for two-wheeler riders, noting that many accidents could be prevented with proper safety gear.

Dr. Saha also took the opportunity to commend the efforts of the Transport Department for their proactive steps in strengthening emergency healthcare infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of timely medical assistance and said that the 16 new BLS ambulances would be critical in saving lives during emergencies. “A few minutes of timely medical support can mean the difference between life and death,” he remarked.

In conclusion, the Chief Minister’s announcements reflect a comprehensive approach to improving road safety in Tripura. From enforcing speed limits and ensuring vehicle fitness to addressing infrastructure issues and enhancing emergency response, the state government is moving toward a more robust and responsible transport system. The initiative also underscores Tripura’s commitment to creating a safer, more accountable road environment for its citizens.