Kathua, August 21: Government Degree College (GDC), Kathua, in collaboration with the Motor Vehicles Department, Kathua, organised a Symposium-cum-Road Safety Awareness Programme to sensitise students about responsible road behaviour, traffic discipline and safe mobility practices.

Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma was the Chief Guest, while RTO Kathua Surinder Paul Sharma served as Patron. ARTO Kathua Kapil Deol and Chief Planning Officer Kathua Ranjeet Thakur were also present.

The programme was organised under the guidance of Principal GDC Kathua, Dr Manohar Lal.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner stressed that road safety is a collective responsibility requiring awareness, discipline and active participation from all sections of society. He urged students to adopt responsible road behaviour and become ambassadors of road safety in their families and communities.

Earlier, RTO Kathua highlighted the importance of strict adherence to traffic rules, while ARTO Kathua elaborated on responsible driving, traffic regulations and the role of youth in promoting a culture of safe mobility.

As part of the symposium, 12 students spoke on various aspects of road safety, including adherence to traffic rules, helmet and seat-belt use, prevention of accidents, avoiding distracted driving and responsible driving practices.

The Motor Vehicles Department also distributed certificates and helmets among the participating students, reinforcing the importance of personal safety while travelling on roads.

The proceedings were conducted by Dr Meenakshi Nargotra, while Prof Yash Pal Sharma, Staff Secretary, GDC Kathua, presented the vote of thanks.

Senior faculty members, teaching and non-teaching staff, members of the Road Safety Club and students attended the programme.