Bhubaneswar, Dec 21: In a major development, the Odisha government on Thursday decided to provide free tea to drivers of vehicles during night on highways in the state to reduce the number of accidents.

Transport Minister Tukuni Sahu said that free tea will be offered to the night drivers in roadside dhabas and hotels. The drivers will also be provided with facilities to take rest.

District Collectors will identify the eating joints where free tea can be served, she added.

Necessary arrangements will be made by the regional transport offices (RTOs) for offering free tea primarily during observation of road safety week from January 1 to 7 next year.

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The drivers will be offered free tea to avoid drowsiness and sleeping related accidents during the night journey, sources said.