KATHUA, Sep 7: Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua, in collaboration with the Traffic Police, organised a Road Safety Symposium on the theme “Road Safety Begins with Responsibility, Not Enforcement” to sensitise students about responsible road-user behaviour and adherence to traffic rules.
The programme began with a welcome address by Dr. Neelima Gupta, Convener, Road Safety Club, GDC Kathua, who welcomed the chief guest, traffic police officials, faculty members, media representatives and students.
The opening address was delivered by DySP Traffic Sunil Gupta, who emphasised the importance of road discipline and responsible behaviour, particularly among young road users. Principal Dr. Manohar Lal appreciated the initiative and highlighted the role of educational institutions in developing responsible and safety-conscious citizens.
As many as 15 students participated in the symposium and shared their views on road safety, responsible driving and the importance of following traffic regulations. Their performances were evaluated by a jury comprising Prof. Yash Pal Sharma, HOD Urdu; Prof. Neelam Bhagat, HOD Home Science; and Prof. Neeraj Sharma, HOD English.
SSP Traffic Rural Jammu Farooq Qaiser interacted with the students and delivered a detailed presentation on road safety and traffic awareness. He discussed the major causes of road accidents and stressed the need for responsible road behaviour, especially among young two-wheeler riders.
The first three winners—Rahul Thakur, Sanam Sharma and Abhishek—were awarded certificates in recognition of their performances.
Before the conclusion, the DySP Traffic Police administered a road-safety oath to the participants and audience, urging them to uphold traffic rules and act as responsible citizens on the road. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by the DySP Traffic Police.
Senior faculty members, including Prof. Karlupia, Prof. Rakesh Jasrotia, Prof. Ram Singh and Prof. Anamika Baru, along with members of the Road Safety Club and other faculty members, were also present.
The symposium provided a meaningful platform for students to discuss road safety and reinforced the message that safer roads begin with individual responsibility and responsible choices.