Hundreds at the Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram driving test track in Nagole on January 8 faced an unexpected life-saving class. Instead of only taking driving tests, candidates joined a first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) awareness session. Doctors demonstrated CPR on mannequins, showing exactly how to act in emergencies. This program was organised by the Nagole Regional Transport Authority (RTA) and Kamineni Hospitals during the 37th National Road Safety Month, running from January 1 to 31, 2026. Officials said the goal is to teach citizens simple first aid skills that can save lives right after road accidents. Sheethal, Motor Vehicles Inspector at Nagole RTA, explained this year's campaign is month-long due to rising accident deaths. She said, "Road accidents continue to be a major concern. The idea is to ensure that at least some people at accident sites knows basic first aid and CPR, so that lives can be saved before medical help arrives." Telangana saw nearly 6,499 deaths from road accidents in 2025, and the toll is rising yearly. Joint Transport Commissioner of Telangana, C. Ramesh, referred to a recent accident in Mokila where four students died and urged citizens to help accident victims and boost road safety. Many young people taking their driving tests received the training either before or after their tests. Officials paused tests briefly so more could join in. The waiting area became a makeshift pavilion with an LED screen showing instructions. CPR demos took place outdoors with mannequins. Assistant Motor Vehicles Inspector Sai Karthik addressed fears of legal trouble. He reassured, "Anyone assisting an accident victim has the right to choose whether they want to be an eyewitness or not. They can help and still keep their personal details confidential. If they do choose to be eyewitnesses, the law mandates that they be treated with respect and even rewarded." Officials also warned about new road hazards like morning fog and Chinese manja kite strings that increase accident risks. This timely training hopes to turn ordinary citizens into first responders on Telangana’s roads.