34th Drivers' Day observed
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 14 2023:
The role drivers play in a landlocked State like Manipur is of immense importance.
Their sacrifice and service towards the people and the State are commendable, said Labour Minister Heikham Dingo.
He said this while speaking at the 34th Drivers' Day observance at Manipur Press Club, Imphal today.
The gathering at the observance paid floral tributes to photos of drivers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
A minute's silence was also observed as a mark of respect for the departed souls.
Speaking to the gathering, the Labour and Employment Minister said, the drivers brave all weather and difficult terrains to bring in goods and articles essential to sustain the people and the State's economy.
When their value in the society is colossal, it is unfortunate that the drivers have suffered much on the roads.
In many instances and incidents, they are beaten and even killed for a few bucks by miscreants.
However, after Chief Minister N Biren Singh led Government came, the number of such incidents have gone down significantly, Heikham Dingo said.
The Minister informed that a number of steps have been taken up to prevent unwanted incidents from happening and provide a sense of security among the drivers and commuters on the National Highways.
The State Government has deployed patrol units working 24x7 on the National Highways.
Further, efforts are on to deploy Highway protection Force, he added.
The role the drivers play is of extreme importance and commendable.
They should be respected and encouraged, Heikham Dingo said.
Manipur Drivers' Association president Saikhom Babudhon Meitei, Manipur Government Transport Secretary Michael Achom, Senapati District Truck Owners' Association president Daikho Sani, Kanglamei president Y Leirik Leima and All Manipur Apunba Meitei Leima Meira Lup president K Guni Leima attended the event as presidium members.
The event was organised jointly by the Manipur Drivers' Association (MDA), Highway Truck Owners' Organisation, Senapati District Truck Drivers' Union, Senapati District Truck Owners' Association and All Manipur Gorkha Truck Drivers and Owners Association.