ISLAMABAD: In a bid to educate youngsters on road safety and traffic laws as to promote responsible driving behavior, Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) on Thursday organised a special awareness seminar at Bahria University.
The move aims to reduce road accidents in the capital through behavioral changes of citizens. Youngsters are the particular focus of this campaign.
According to the ITP spokesperson, the seminar was attended by a large number of students at the varsity, faculty members, staffers and ITP senior officials.
The seminar at the university was part of a broader campaign efforts being carried out by the ITP at different educational institutions, bus stops, chambers, markets and other specific places. The purpose of this campaign to reduce accidents and promote safer roads in the city.
Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Muhammad Sarfaraz Virk participated as the chief guest and addressed the audience on the importance of following traffic rules in everyday life.
Speaking on the occasion, CTO Virk emphasized that adherence to traffic laws is the responsibility of every citizen, adding that the negligence on the roads not only endangers the driver but also poses serious risks to other commuters. “Observing traffic rules is not optional; it is a civic duty that ensures the safety of all,” he recalled.
Highlighting the role of youth in shaping a safer society, the CTO stressed that raising awareness among the younger generation is the need of the hour. He added that educating students about traffic regulations could significantly contribute to reducing the number of road accidents. “If our youth become responsible drivers today, we can build a safer tomorrow,” he remarked.
During the seminar, officers from the ITP Education Wing delivered detailed briefings on various aspects of safe driving. The session covered essential topics such as the proper use of zebra crossings, the importance of wearing helmets for motorcyclists and the necessity of fastening seat belts while driving. The officers also highlighted the dangers associated with using mobile phones during driving, warning that distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents.
Participants were encouraged to adopt safe driving habits and strictly follow traffic regulations. The interactive session allowed students to ask questions and share their views on road safety challenges, making the seminar both informative and engaging.
In a significant development, Islamabad Traffic Police and Bahria University also agreed to strengthen their collaboration under the “Friends of Police” program. The initiative aims to foster a cooperative relationship between law enforcement agencies and educational institutions to promote community awareness and civic responsibility. Under this partnership, similar awareness campaigns and training sessions are expected to be conducted in the future.
At the conclusion of the seminar, students expressed their commitment to not only follow traffic rules themselves but also spread awareness among their peers, families, and communities. Many participants appreciated the initiative, stating that such programs are crucial in instilling a sense of responsibility and discipline among young drivers.
The Islamabad Traffic Police reiterated its commitment to organizing more such awareness activities to educate citizens about road safety. Officials said that continuous engagement with the public, particularly the youth, is essential to building a culture of compliance with traffic laws.
As road safety remains a growing concern in urban centers, initiatives like these highlight the importance of collective efforts between institutions and law enforcement agencies. The Traffic Police believes that sustained awareness campaigns, combined with strict enforcement of traffic laws, can play a key role in minimizing road accidents and saving lives.
ITP holds traffic safety seminar at Bahria University
