New Delhi:
Delhi Transport Minister Gopal Rai has urged people to adopt "one family-one car" norm to reduce traffic on the capital's roads and also appealed to them to use public transport.
Addressing a conference on 'Safe Road-Safe Life' organised by ASSOCHAM, Mr Rai also said there is need to change people's mindset towards road safety.
"One family should limit itself to one car rather than keeping three to four cars and use public transport. We need to change the mindset of people for road safety first," Mr Rai said.
The minister said he sees an "adhocism" in the transport system of Delhi whether it be in the construction of roads, public transport or by drivers and pedestrians.
"I see an adhocism in Delhi's transport system for example when we head towards ITO from ISBT (Inter-state Bus Terminal) we see four roads that later shrink to one at ITO, that makes the road a hot spot for accidents," Mr Rai said.
When asked if the low fine or penalty for violating the road safety norms also contribute to accidents in Delhi, the transport minister said increasing fines will not make much difference, it's the mindset of people which needs to be changed.
He also appealed to Delhiites to partipate in Delhi government's initiave to make October 22 a 'Car Free Day', under 'Aao Ab Bus Karein' campaign on the stretch of road between Red Fort and India Gate.
When asked if the ban on app-based taxis Uber and Ola is still being enforced, Mr Rai said, "The ban will continue until they register themselves and switch to CNG cars in their fleet."
However, the Special Commissioner (Traffic) Delhi Police, Muktesh Chander stressed on increasing fines for violation of traffic rules to ensure road safety in the capital.
"It's not vehicle that is responsible for any accident but the driver is. So it is every important to increase the fine for violation of road safety norms," he said.
The Conference later released a data report on road safety and road accidents in 2014.