Government Drivers' Day : 'Drivers should be recognised as one of the most respected professions'
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, June 11 2019:
All Manipur Government Drivers' & Technicians' Association observed "Government Drivers' Day" Tuesday at the Training Hall of State Fishery Department, Lamphelpat, Imphal.
Dr Chinglen Maisnam, faculty member Department of Economics, Manipur University, Bijoy Kakchingtabam, president All Manipur Working Journalists' Union (AMWJU) and K Manoranjan Singh, president AMGD & TA attended the event as presidium members.
Speaking at the event, Dr Chinglen said that drivers are among the most hard-working communities.
They are behind the normal functioning of a society.
When they took their hands off the steering wheel, the whole of the State and the entire economy come to a standstill, he said lauding the drivers for their contributions.
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Drivers are not responsible for transport only but also the safety of the commuters.
Their service and sacrifice are second to none, he added.
Despite the great role they perform, they are not given enough credit and salary, he lamented and emphasised that drivers should be recognised as one of the most respected professions considering the services they give to all.
Drivers are tasked to drive through difficult terrains.
Road accidents have claimed many lives including those of drivers, he said pointing out the difficulty they face and need for adherence to traffic safety rules and guidelines to avoid accidents.
PM Narendra Modi Government had introduced the Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill 2017 but failed due to lapse.
Hopefully the BJP led Government will be introducing the Bill again, he said.
About 150 in a year lost their lives in accident in Manipur.
About 3,500 died due to accidents in the last 30 years in the State, he said expressing concern that the Government spending on road safety is minimal at just Rs 10 lakh a year.
Stating the need for effective implementation of road safety and transport policy, he urged the State Government to look into the working condition of the drivers and work for their growth.
He also appealed the Government to provide them with necessary equipment and emergency kits/services to ensure safety of the drivers and commuters as well.
The celebration was held as a part of 25th foundation day of All India Government Drivers' Federation.