Islamabad, The Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS), in partnership with the International Federation of the Red Cross Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and supported by the Italian Red Cross, hosted the National Road Safety Conference 2023 at its National Headquarters in Islamabad. The event marked a significant effort to address Pakistan’s growing traffic challenges and high rate of road accidents.

According to Pakistan People’s Party, the conference convened an array of distinguished guests, including PRCS leadership, representatives from its Provincial branches, delegates from IFRC, ICRC, and other National Societies, officials from Islamabad Traffic Police and National Highway & Motorway Police, as well as PRCS staff, volunteers, and students from various educational institutions.

Chairman PRCS, Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari, highlighted Pakistan’s struggle with severe road accidents and traffic challenges, noting the country’s high rate of road accidents and the resultant loss of life. He emphasized PRCS’s commitment to fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge to mitigate the impact of road accidents. Laghari described the conference as an essential platform for discussions and the development of innovative solutions, calling on the youth to prioritize and promote road safety measures.

Piwi Ophoff, Head of Country Delegation, IFRC in Pakistan, discussed the IFRC’s support for the PRCS in implementing a road safety project aimed at strengthening safer road behaviors and first aid knowledge. He mentioned the project’s focus on children and the youth and confirmed the IFRC’s commitment to supporting its second phase in 2024.

PRCS Member Managing Body and Treasurer Dr. Irshad Mehmood underlined the importance of adhering to traffic rules and urged public involvement in raising road safety awareness. Secretary General PRCS, Muhammad Abaidullah Khan, in his opening remarks, pointed out the alarming increase in road accidents in Pakistan and stressed the necessity of following road safety rules.

The conference featured a documentary showcasing the achievements of the PRCS Road Safety Project, alongside a tableau performed by students from the Educator School Islamabad, highlighting the importance of adhering to road safety laws.

In conclusion, Chairman Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari and members of the PRCS Managing Body, along with Heads of National Societies, distributed shields to officers from ITP and NHMP who collaborated on the Road Safety Project. Shields were also awarded to representatives of private and government schools.

The National Road Safety Conference 2023 is a critical milestone in creating a safer road environment in Pakistan, with PRCS continuing its dedicated efforts to reduce road accidents and safeguard the lives of citizens.