Sugarcane trolley accidents spark safety concerns

With approximately 20 sugarcane trolley-related road accidents reported during the ongoing crushing season, the district administration convened a meeting to address safety concerns and ensure proper arrangements for the safe transportation of sugarcane.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Captain (retd) Nadeem Nasir, focused on minimising accidents and maintaining traffic flow during the sugarcane crushing season.

DC Nasir directed the RTA secretary to monitor overloading and ensure that all transportation complies with safety guidelines.

He emphasised the importance of coordination among traffic police, the RTA, and other relevant departments to guarantee smooth and secure transportation.

Addressing farmer organisation representatives, Nasir urged adherence to safety measures issued by the RTA, including strict compliance with axle load limits to prevent spillage.

Transport owners were instructed to follow axle load management guidelines and ensure sugarcane trolleys are loaded safely.

RTA Secretary Hamayun Rasheed Sayyial briefed attendees on additional precautions, including the mandatory use of reflectors or China lights at the rear of sugarcane trolleys during night time transport to improve visibility and reduce collisions.

He also emphasized the importance of ensuring no lateral projections of sugarcane beyond the trolley dimensions.

The meeting also reviewed safety measures for student transportation buses and addressed the fitness of government vehicles, with strict enforcement of certification from vehicle inspection centres.

In addition to road safety, the meeting highlighted efforts to combat gender-based violence, underscoring the district administration's commitment to broader community welfare initiatives.