Punjab government has started a new step to protect farmers on rural roads. The campaign is called “Hauli Chalo” which means drive slowly and drive safe. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann gave clear directions that the safety of farmers and villagers should be the first focus. Special DGP A.S. Rai launched the campaign by putting reflector stickers on tractor-trolleys at Bhago Majra Toll Plaza. This move shows that the government is serious about saving lives. It is not only about traffic but also about respect for the farming community. The stickers will help other vehicles to see tractors clearly. This is a farmer-friendly and safety-focused decision.
Reflectors Bring Road Visibility Change
The first stage of the campaign will cover nearly 30,000 tractor-trolleys with reflectors. Punjab has about 4,100 kilometers of road network where farmers often travel during night or fog. The project is supported by Yara India and carried out by the State Safety Force (SSF). Reflectors will glow when light falls on them, making tractors visible even from a distance. Earlier many accidents happened because tractors were not visible in the dark. This plan will directly reduce accidents and save lives. It is one of the biggest road safety campaigns in rural Punjab.
Accidents Raised Alarming Concerns
From 2017 to 2022, Punjab saw 2,048 tractor-trolley accidents. Out of these, 1,569 people lost their lives, and most of them were farmers. These numbers shook the state and created demand for action. Chief Minister Mann’s government treated these figures as an alarm bell. Instead of ignoring, the government decided to respond with policy changes and awareness campaigns. The “Hauli Chalo” plan is part of this response. By linking safety with farming life, the government has shown its care for farmers. The move also gives farmers confidence that their lives matter equally as their work.
Turning Safety Into Mass Movement
Special DGP A.S. Rai said this campaign is not only about stickers but a public movement. In rural areas, tractors without lights or reflectors often caused deadly night accidents. With these stickers, other drivers will easily identify tractors even in low light. This will lower accidents and also increase awareness among people. The campaign teaches that safety is not a one-time rule but a daily practice. “Hauli Chalo” is also becoming a slogan for slow and safe driving. It is expected that this will create a culture of discipline on roads. Farmers are the key part of this mission.
Road Deaths Already Showing Drop
Reports from Punjab Police say that deaths due to accidents have already reduced in 2024. Especially deaths happening within 24 hours of accidents are down. This is not a coincidence but the effect of better traffic management, road engineering and awareness. The government has focused on strict enforcement of rules along with public education. This shows that safety is not about fear but about awareness. The fall in accident numbers has created trust in government policies. It also sends a message that reforms are working. Farmers are now more hopeful about safer travel.
SSF Units Work Together Strong
All SSF units across Punjab are pushing this campaign together. This united effort makes the campaign stronger and more effective. The launch is also planned during harvesting season which is the busiest time for farmers. During foggy mornings and evenings, tractor visibility is the weakest. That is why this time is perfect for the campaign. Farmers now feel they are being supported with care. Reflectors are cheap but can save many lives. The campaign will remain in action till all tractors are covered. It is the biggest farmer-safety operation in Punjab.
Safety Culture With Farmer Respect
The Mann government has tied this campaign with farmer dignity. Reflectors on tractors mean more than safety, they show respect to the farming lifestyle. Punjab is not only known for crops but also for strong farmers. Now Punjab will also be known for safe farmers. From fields to markets, the journey will be safer and stress free. The message is clear: slow drive, safe life, more respect. “Hauli Chalo” is not only a slogan but a new culture. The people and government together are writing a new story of safety. Punjab is walking towards a safer future.
