Mizoram, February 2025.
Reinforcing its commitment to promotesafedriving practices, Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) today announced the launch of awareness and health check-up initiative for over 1,250 driversin Mizoram. Coinciding with ‘Road Safety Month’ (January 18 – February 17, 2025), the initiativeis in response to rising road accidents across the state. The occasion was graced by the distinguished presence of the chief guestMr. Stephen Lalrinawma MPS, Senior Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Aizawl, Mr. ZorammawiaTochhawng, Dealer Principal, Zote Toyota and executives from TKM.
In 2023 & 2024, Mizoram witnessed 106 and 124 road accidents respectively with corresponding fatalities at 96 and 112.Lack of driving discipline, over-speeding, violation of traffic regulations, and inadequate enforcement measures have contributed to these accidents. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, in collaboration with local authorities, is actively engaging with commercial drivers to educate them on responsible driving behaviours while ensuring their physical and mental well-being through dedicated health screenings.
Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s comprehensive safety initiative for commercial drivers such as truck, bus and van drivers comprise of two key components:
- Road Safety Awareness Sessions
Designed to educate and empower drivers, the sessions cover:
- Importance of road safety and responsible driving practices
- Rules and regulations for commercial drivers
- Awareness on penalties for traffic violations
- Mental and physical well-being for professional drivers
- Importance of vehicle insurance and compliance
- Comprehensive Health Check-ups
Ensuring the physical and mental well-being of drivers, the initiative includes:
- Screening for common health conditions(Blood Pressure, Sugar, Eyesight, Hearing etc) affecting driving performance
- Prescription of essential medicines and health advice
- Referral to government healthcare centres for further treatment, if needed
Moreover, as part of broader road safety measures, 34units ofANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition system)&20 units of CCTV camerasare being installed at key locations to enhance road monitoring, deter traffic violations, and improve enforcement measures, ensuring a safer driving environment for all. Through this structured approach, TKM aims to equip drivers with the right knowledge and health support, enabling them to make informed, responsible decisions on the road.
Sharing his thoughts on the initiative, Chief Guest Mr. Stephen Lalrinawma MPS, Senior Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Aizawl said,“Ensuring safe roads requires a multi-faceted approach that includes awareness, enforcement, and community engagement. Toyota Kirloskar Motor’s initiative is a commendable step in educating drivers about responsible driving while also prioritizing their health. 68 percent of road accidents take place due to carelessness of the drivers which can be avoided. Drivers should also focus on the fitness of vehicles as thisalsoleads to accidents. I urge all commercial vehicle drivers, especially truck drivers,to participate in the event. By empowering commercial drivers with knowledge and support for their well-being, we are not only enhancing road safety but also fostering a more disciplined driving culture. Collaborative efforts like these are essential in making a lasting impact, and we appreciate Toyota’s dedication to this crucial cause.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vikram Gulati, Country Head and Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs and Governance, said,“At Toyota, road safety is more than just a responsibility; it is a mission. Our goal is to actively engage with drivers, empowering them with the right knowledge and health support. Through our structured awareness sessions andphysical healthscreenings, we are committed to making a tangible impact on driving behaviour, ensuring safe roads. Our ‘People First’ philosophy drives us to support initiatives that improve lives, and this program is a step forward in our long-term vision for road safety in India.”
Towards reaffirming its commitment to education and road safety, TKM also announced the successful culmination of the second year of its inaugural batch at the Annual Toyota Safety Education Program (TSEP) event, held atDelhi, Mumbai &Bangalore. Further strengthening its dedication to fostering road safety innovation, TKM also marked the successful completion of the 24-hour Toyota Hackathon in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore where participants addressed critical road safety challenges, including awareness and education, community engagement, school zone safety, road infrastructure and pollution, IoT/ICT in road safety, traffic easement, and making roads more inclusive. By bringing together students, developers, and innovators to solve real-world road safety issues, Toyota continues to drive forward its vision of creating a safer, more responsible, and technologically advanced mobility ecosystem.
