“When we look at the accidents occurring today, it’s clear there is little regard for the lives of others who travel with hopes and expectations. Nor is there concern for one’s own life. I am not sure whether to call this ignorance or sheer carelessness,” said the Honorable Governor of the Northern Province, N. Vethanayahan.
An awareness workshop on road safety, organized by the Northern Provincial Road Passenger Transport Authority, was held at the Jaffna Divisional Secretariat Conference Hall on the morning of Wednesday, 30th July 2025. The event was chaired by the Authority’s Chairman, Mr. K. Maheswaran.
The Governor, who attended the event as the Chief Guest, remarked in his speech that “we are now experiencing greater losses from road accidents than the deaths and injuries sustained during the war. There is hardly a day without news of road accidents. Interestingly, when our roads were hilly and full of potholes, such accidents were rare. But now, despite improved paved roads, the number of accidents has risen dramatically.”
He continued, “The frequency of these accidents deeply affects our minds and shakes our hearts. Those who travel with hopes and expectations must reflect on the tragic consequences of road accidents. If we all become more mindful, the likelihood of such incidents can be significantly reduced.” The Governor shared his personal observations, “I have witnessed the irresponsibility of many drivers on the road—vehicles suddenly turning without signaling, putting lives at risk. I have reported the reckless driving of certain private bus operators to the Northern Provincial Road Passenger Transport Authority, urging them to take legal action.” He concluded by emphasizing personal responsibility “Reducing road accidents depends on the behavior of every one of you here today. Your participation in this awareness session is a crucial step toward safer roads.”
The event was graced by the presence of several distinguished officials, including the Chief Secretary of the Northern Province, Mrs. Thanuja Murugesan; the Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Northern Province, Mr. A. Sothinathan; the Divisional Secretary of Jaffna, Mr. S. Sutharsan; and Medical Doctor S.T.S. Chandrakumar. Also in attendance were key contributors to the awareness campaign: Jaffna Teaching Hospital Pediatric Surgeon Dr. P. Sayantan, Judicial Medical Officer Dr. U. Mayurathan, Chief Vehicle Inspector Mr. Jayasekara, and Senior Superintendent of Police, Jaffna, Mr. Jayamana, who led the campaign efforts.
