Salcete records 15 road accident deaths in January-September

MARGAO: Fifteen people from Salcete lost their lives in the first nine months of this year in road accidents, police records reveal.
In the altogether 36 road accidents recorded at various police stations in Salcete from January to September, 45 people sustained injuries.

Maina Curtorim police station registered the highest number of accident cases at 13, while the lowest number of accidents was reported at Colva at 4. Eight cases of accidents were registered at Cuncolim police station, while Margao and Fatorda police stations booked 5 and 6 cases respectively.
The 15 cases of fatalities include four each booked at Colva and Cuncolim police stations, two at Margao police station, three at Maina Curtorim police station and two at Fatorda police station.
Police officials attributed the high number of accidents to reckless driving, over-speeding and bad condition of roads at various places. Police sources said that cases of drinking and driving have also been on the rise.
Sources said that large number of potholes also contributed to rise in accidents involving two-wheelers.
Sources also pointed out how bus stands have turned into accident-prone areas as buses compel passengers to alight on the main roads before taking the vehicles inside the bus stands.
Roland Martins of Goacan, a consumer network organisation, attributed the high number of accidents to the lack of professional supervision in road construction from the point of view of road engineering and traffic safety aspects. He also stressed on the need of eliminating threats in areas prone to accidents.
Martins, at a recent meeting with senior police officials, had urged police to release data of traffic accidents every quarter so that causes of accidents are properly analysed and action taken to prevent them. The police were also urged to ensure compliance of ‘don’t drink and drive’ signages at bars and restaurants.