New Delhi: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday released a video in support of a road safety campaign as he joined a group of celebrities who have been designated as “global road safety champions” by the United Nations.“Every life matters,” he said, hoping his security statement to the United Nations would help “create safer roads for all.” “If Sachin Tendulkar says ‘Don’t use your mobile phone while driving’, people will listen. If Sachin Tendulkar says ‘Wear a helmet,’ people will listen,” Jean Todt, the UN Secretary-General’s special envoy for road safety, told an event.Tendulkar said in a video message: “Throughout my career, I have learned that discipline and awareness are not only crucial for success but also for responsibility… The same is true on our roads. ““Every day, our actions impact others. Wearing a seat belt or helmet, staying alert and respecting traffic rules can save lives… Our road fatality rate is 10 times higher than the number of vehicles we have. But through awareness and collective action, we can protect our families and communities,” he said.United Nations entities in India, including WHO, have also launched a program to provide financial and technical support to four states – Rajasthan, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Assam – to improve black spots, safer school zones, walking and cycling facilities and post-crash care. These states were selected to establish agencies to address road safety issues.
