Hyderabad: The Telangana State Legal Services Authority (TSLSA) on Monday launched Road Safety Abhiyan 2026 to spread awareness on traffic rules amid a steady rise in road accidents across the state.
The campaign will run from January 5 to January 9 across Telangana, following directions from Telangana High Court Executive Chairman Justice P. Sam Koshy. Through the programme, authorities aim to educate students, youth, and the public on safe road behaviour under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The formal launch took place at Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Kundanhbagh. On that occasion, Justice Sam Koshy released awareness posters and administered the Road Safety Pledge. Meanwhile, District and Mandal Legal Services Authorities have begun awareness programmes in schools and colleges.
The campaign focuses on curbing the rise in road accidents
Addressing the gathering, Assistant Commissioner of Police S.V. Raghavendra Rao said strict adherence to traffic rules can significantly reduce accidents. He also urged parents not to hand over vehicles to minors. Additionally, he warned that traffic violations incur penalties under the law.
Explaining the objective, Justice Sam Koshy said the week-long drive will cover the entire state. Therefore, the authorities began the campaign at an educational institution to instil road discipline at an early age.
Sharing official data, Justice Sam Koshy said Telangana recorded about 24,826 road accidents in 2025. This represented a 5.6% increase over 2024. As a result, nearly 6,500 people lost their lives, while around 14,768 suffered injuries. According to him, the rise is linked to an increase in vehicle numbers and minors driving without licences.
Referring to recent incidents, he highlighted the dangers of rash driving among youngsters. Moreover, he said many accidents go unreported, which makes the situation more serious.
The Member Secretary of TSLSA explained basic safety measures for motorists. He pointed out that head injuries account for most fatal accidents. Therefore, he urged two-wheeler riders to wear helmets and cautioned against mobile phone use and drunk driving.
Finally, TSLSA said the campaign will reach all schools and colleges. Para-legal volunteers, panel lawyers, and legal services staff will take part in the drive across the state.