Guwahati: Assam transport minister Chandra Mohan Patowary on Wednesday criticised owners of commercial vehicles for violation of rules and officials for failing to enforce road safety.

Speaking at a programme organised as part of the 29th road safety week here, Patowary said, "In the past few days I have seen truck owners' associations raising the issue of coal overloading but they are not concerned about road safety. We can ensure road safety only through combined efforts of officials and vehicle owners. However, I do not see adequate participation of truck and bus owners today. It is not a good sign."

Patowary warned of stern action against overloading. "Not only drivers and helpers, truck owners will be also arrested if the vehicles are found overloaded with coal."

Criticising the laxity of some transport officials over road safety, Patowary said, "Some district transport officers have no interest in safety issues. In Assam, around 7,000 people die in road accidents every year. This year, the casualties dropped by 4 per cent. However, our aim should be to make it zero. I want all transport officers to spend some time in educational institutions to create awareness on road safety among students."

Patowary told motor vehicle inspectors: "I often get complaints that you are not carrying out proper inspection of vehicles. Your sincerity can save a person's life."

He said the state government will consider including road safety in school and college curriculum and telecast sponsored programmes on road safety in local electronic media.