Bhubaneswar: Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattanaik collaborated with the Transport department of the Odisha government to create a thought-provoking sand sculpture on Puri Beach, to mark the Zero Accident Day on June 3.
The sculpture carried the message “No Mistake, No Loss Aim for Zero”, emphasising the importance of road safety and responsible behaviour.
The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the crucial role individuals play in preventing accidents and saving lives. Sudarsan Pattanaik highlighted that “Road safety is not just a rule, it’s a responsibility”, underscoring the need for collective action to ensure safer roads.
The campaign was organised by the Transport Department of the Odisha government as part of its efforts to promote road safety and reduce accidents in the state.
Taking his X handle, Pattnaik wrote: “ #ZeroAccidentDay A powerful campaign by the Odisha Government’s Transport dept @CTOdisha . To support this noble cause, I created a sand art at Puri Beach with with message: “#ComeHomeSafe.” Let’s pledge to follow traffic rules and make our roads safer for everyone. #ZeroAccidentDay #RoadSafety #Odisha #ComeHomeSafe”
Pattnaik has created a 5ft high sand sculpture on Puri Beach, emphasising the crucial role individuals play in ensuring safety on roads. The sculpture, which used approximately 4.5 tons of sand, urges the public to follow traffic rules, stay alert, and make responsible choices to prevent accidents and save lives. By visually highlighting that road safety is a shared duty, the sculpture encourages awareness and action.
Students from Pattnaik’s sand art institution joined him in creating this impactful piece. As a Padma Shri awardee, Pattnaik has represented India in over 65 international sand sculpture championships and festivals, winning numerous prizes. Through his sand art, he consistently spreads awareness on vital issues such as HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, global warming, stopping terrorism, beating plastic pollution, and saving the environment. His work continues to inspire and educate people on important social causes.