With the picnic season setting in across Assam, district administrations have stepped up efforts to prevent road accidents and ensure public safety. A detailed Standard Operating Procedure has been issued to regulate picnic-related travel and enforce strict safety norms.
The SOP has been rolled out by the District Administration in coordination with local police, District Transport Offices, and other enforcement agencies. Authorities have made it clear that road safety will be non-negotiable during the picnic season.
Under the new guidelines, a zero-tolerance policy against drunk driving will be enforced through regular breath analyser tests, with strict legal action against violators. Officials have also been directed to take firm action against over-speeding by picnic-bound vehicles through continuous speed monitoring and penalties.
Only roadworthy vehicles with valid registration, insurance, and fitness certificates will be allowed to operate. Vehicle fitness checks will be carried out at strategic locations, and only legally permitted passenger vehicles, including private cars, buses, and tempo travellers that comply with safety norms, will be allowed to ferry picnic-goers.
The SOP mandates strict enforcement of seat belt and helmet rules under the Motor Vehicles Act, along with checks to prevent overcrowding. Drivers will be briefed about the dangers of reckless and drunken driving before starting their journey.
To minimise risks, picnic-related vehicular movement will be restricted after sunset and before sunrise. Citizens have been advised to travel only after sunrise and return before sunset. Movement may also be restricted during adverse weather conditions such as heavy fog or rain.
At picnic destinations, sufficient parking spaces will be earmarked, and vehicles will be allowed to park only in designated safe areas. Parking that obstructs traffic or poses safety risks will be prevented through signage, barricading, and strict enforcement.
Additional safety measures include mobile patrols on accident-prone routes, installation of warning signboards, adequate lighting at vulnerable picnic spots, and regular raids on dhabas and establishments suspected of selling illicit liquor near picnic locations.
Local police, with assistance from Village Defence Parties where required, will deploy surveillance teams at picnic spots to prevent illegal or unlawful activities.
Citizens have also been advised to carry essential emergency items such as first-aid kits, drinking water, and basic vehicle repair tools. Emergency helpline numbers, including 112 for police assistance and 108 for medical emergencies, have been widely publicised.
The administration has clarified that the SOP measures may be strengthened further depending on local conditions and has urged full public cooperation to ensure a safe and enjoyable picnic season across the state.
