In response to the first Global Road Safety Week, the National Traffic Safety Committee has devised specific solutions for ensuring road transport safety such as the compulsory wearing of helmets on certain road sections, not being under the effects of alcohol when in control of a vehicle and not surpassing the speed limit. A Voice of Vietnam Radio reporter interviewed Minister of Transport and Chairman of the National Traffic Safety Committee Ho Nghia Dung.

Reporter: What is your assessment of propaganda activities aimed at ensuring traffic safety and order in recent times?

Mr Dung: In recent years, traffic safety propaganda activities have been intensified in schools as well as in the entire society. However, these activities have not yet been implemented regularly and synchronously, resulting in little positive impacts on young people.

Reporter: What specific measures will the Ministry of Transport and the National Traffic Safety Committee work out to resolve the above- mentioned issue.

Mr Dung: Responding to the Road Safety Week is not just a measure to capture the attention of young people and society but a long-term effective measure is to include traffic safety-related issues in curriculums at schools and unions such as the Youth Union and Youth Association. In particular, family’s assistance in educating children about the importance of traffic safety is also a necessary measure to raise young people’s awareness of this issue.

Reporter: Do you think that the increasing number of traffic accidents is attributable to both State management agencies and road users?

Minister Dung: There are many reasons for this rise, but two main ones. First, it is due to State management agencies. The Ministry of Transport, the Ministry of Public Security and relevant ministries and agencies aren’t fully aware of their responsibility for this issue. Second, it is very important to raise public awareness of the matter. It means that road users must have a good understanding of the traffic law. To reduce the number of traffic accidents, each citizen and social organization must take on their responsibility.

Reporter: Could you elaborate on detail plans on minimizing traffic accidents in 2007?

Minister Dung: This is an enormous task that needs more time to be fulfilled. However, we have mapped out a number of measures to minimize the number of traffic accidents, aimed at reducing the death toll and injuries by about 10 percent. We’ve also directed agencies at all levels, especially localities, to try their best to achieve this goal.

Reporter: Thank you very much.