KATHUA, Aug 21: Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua, in collaboration with the Motor Vehicle Department, Kathua, organised a Symposium-cum-Road Safety Awareness Programme on Friday, with the objective of sensitising students and the public about responsible road behaviour, traffic discipline and the importance of road safety.
The programme was held under the guidance of Dr. Manohar Lal, Principal, GDC Kathua, who has consistently encouraged initiatives aimed at fostering social responsibility, civic awareness and the holistic development of students.
The programme was graced by Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Commissioner, Kathua, as the Chief Guest. Surinder Paul Sharma, RTO Kathua, was the Patron, while Kapil Deol, ARTO, also addressed the gathering. Ranjeet Thakur, JKES, Chief Planning Officer (CPO), Kathua, was also present on the occasion.
The programme commenced with a formal welcome address by Surinder Paul Sharma, RTO Kathua, who highlighted the significance of road safety and stressed the need for strict adherence to traffic rules. In his address, Kapil Deol, ARTO, elaborated upon various aspects of road safety, responsible driving, traffic regulations and the role of young citizens in promoting a culture of safe mobility.
The Deputy Commissioner, Kathua, Rajesh Sharma, JKAS, addressed the gathering and emphasised that road safety is a collective responsibility requiring awareness, discipline and active participation from every section of society. He urged students to become responsible road users and ambassadors of road safety in their families and communities.
As part of the symposium, twelve students of the college spoke on various aspects of road safety, highlighting issues such as adherence to traffic rules, use of helmets and seat belts, responsible driving, prevention of accidents, avoidance of distracted driving and the importance of developing a safety-conscious attitude among youth. The presentations provided an engaging platform for students to express their views and demonstrate their awareness of road safety concerns.
The programme also included certificate and helmet distribution to the participants by the Motor Vehicle Department, Kathua, as an encouragement for their active participation and as a practical reminder of the importance of personal safety while travelling on roads.
The proceedings of the programme were conducted by Dr. Meenakshi Nargotra, who coordinated the various segments of the event. The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, Staff Secretary, GDC Kathua, who expressed gratitude to the dignitaries, Motor Vehicle Department, college administration, faculty members and students for making the programme meaningful and successful.
The event was attended by senior faculty members Dr . Rakesh Jasrotia, Prof. Ram Singh, teaching and non-teaching staff, and members of the Road Safety Club of GDC Kathua, along with participating students.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment by the college community to promote safe, responsible and disciplined road behaviour, reinforcing the message that every life on the road is precious and that road safety begins with individual responsibility.