Odisha CM Launches Zero Accident Day Campaign from Keonjhar: A Call for Safer Roads

Keonjhar, Odisha , September 16, 2025: In a landmark move towards road safety and public awareness, Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi launched the “Zero Accident Day” campaign today in Keonjhar district. The initiative marks a significant step in the State Government’s mission to transform Odisha into an accident-free state, setting an example for the rest of the country.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister emphasized that road safety is not just a government responsibility—it is a shared duty of every citizen. He urged people to actively participate in spreading awareness and adopting safe practices to help reduce road accidents across the state.

Road Safety Awareness Raths Flagged Off

As part of this statewide campaign, 13 specially designed awareness vehicles (Raths) were flagged off from Keonjhar, each dedicated to promoting road safety messages across all 13 blocks of the district. These mobile units will tour cities, towns, and villages, spreading messages about safe driving, pedestrian rules, helmet and seatbelt use, and the importance of following traffic laws.

The campaign aims to reach every corner of the district and eventually the entire state, raising awareness at the grassroots level.

“Safety Begins With Us”: A Message to All

Addressing the gathering, CM Majhi said:

“Safety is not just a rule—it is a responsibility. Every life is precious, and every accident is avoidable. Let’s work together to ensure that our roads are not places of tragedy but paths to progress.”

He further highlighted that accidents often occur due to negligence, overspeeding, lack of awareness, and failure to follow safety norms. Through this campaign, the government aims to instill a culture of caution, responsibility, and respect for traffic laws.

Community Participation is Key

The Chief Minister stressed the importance of community involvement in making this campaign successful. Citizens were encouraged to:

  • Follow traffic rules diligently
  • Wear helmets and seatbelts
  • Avoid drunk and distracted driving
  • Encourage family and friends to be road-safety conscious
  • Participate in local awareness drives

He called on the youth, schools, transport workers, NGOs, and local leaders to become ambassadors of road safety in their communities.

Why Keonjhar?

Keonjhar district, with its growing network of roads and increasing vehicle density due to industrial activity, has been identified as a critical region for road safety intervention. Launching the campaign here highlights the government’s focus on addressing high-risk zones and promoting long-term, data-driven safety strategies.

 Towards an Accident-Free Odisha

With this campaign, the Odisha government sets in motion a visionary initiative—not only to reduce accidents but to build a sustainable culture of safety and responsibility on the roads. Through collaboration between the government, civil society, and citizens, Odisha aspires to become India’s first “Zero Accident” state.

“Zero Accident Day” is not just a campaign—it’s a movement. A movement that reminds us that every small act of awareness, every cautious decision, and every responsible action on the road can save lives.

Let this be a day of reflection and resolve—for safer streets, for stronger communities, and for a future where no family has to grieve a loss that could have been prevented.