TFP Bureau, Korba; February 19, 2024: Bharat Aluminium Company Limited (BALCO), a leading aluminium producer in India and a subsidiary of Vedanta Aluminium, marked the 35th anniversary of National Road Safety Month with a comprehensive month-long campaign titled ‘Be a Road Safety Hero’. The initiative, observed from January 15 to February 14, aimed at instilling road safety awareness among employees, their families, and the neighboring communities, fostering a safer environment for all road users.
The campaign witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 8000 individuals, engaging in various activities tailored to promote safe driving practices and road safety measures. BALCO organized quizzes, rallies, drawing competitions, and slogan contests among its team members, emphasizing the importance of responsible road behavior. Informative skits and emergency drills were conducted to educate participants on handling road-related incidents effectively.
In addition to activities within its plant, BALCO extended its outreach to nearby schools, conducting safety talks and quizzes to impart road safety knowledge to students, thereby nurturing a culture of awareness and responsibility from a young age.
Addressing the significance of road safety, Mr. Rajesh Kumar, CEO and Director of BALCO, stated, “BALCO is dedicated to fostering a safety-conscious environment within and beyond our organization. Our month-long campaign underscores our commitment to empowering road users with the knowledge and skills needed for safe navigation on roads. Through sustained awareness efforts, we aim to cultivate a culture of accountability and respect, ensuring safety within our plant and surrounding communities.”
As part of its safety initiatives, BALCO organized eye check-ups and health camps for over 400 drivers within its plant premises, focusing on individuals operating heavy vehicles. Surprise vehicle inspections were conducted to reinforce adherence to safety protocols, while efforts were made to identify and address potential blind spots within the plant, enhancing overall safety measures.
Furthermore, BALCO launched a dedicated helpline in collaboration with BALCO Police to facilitate seamless traffic management, underscoring its commitment to ensuring safety in its operational vicinity. The company also expanded parking facilities to accommodate over 270 heavy vehicles, facilitating efficient transportation of raw materials and finished products.
In addition to its road safety campaign, BALCO has integrated advanced technologies within its operations to enhance safety protocols. These include T-Pulse Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE) Monitoring System, Augmented and Virtual Reality Training Centre, and Centralized Security Operations Centre (CSOC), among others.
Through its holistic approach to safety, BALCO continues to prioritize the well-being of its employees, their families, and local communities, earning recognition through prestigious awards such as the National Safety Awards (Mines) and the Global Road Safety Award for its unwavering commitment to safety excellence.