Road safety is an urgent global issue with a significant impact on India. Statistics from various studies indicate a strong need for measures to prevent roadway accidents and the accompanying loss of life. This article delves into key aspects of road safety, effective interventions, infrastructure, and relevant legislation.
Road Safety in India: Statistic Highlights
According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ 2020 report, India recorded about 1,31,714 deaths due to road accidents. A staggering 69.3% of these fatalities resulted from speeding, while lack of helmets and non-use of seatbelts caused 30.1% and 11.5% of deaths respectively. Furthermore, Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) rank as the eighth leading cause of death globally across all age groups but are first for the 5-29 years age group. Interestingly, India accounts for nearly 10% of all crash-related deaths globally while possessing only 1% of the world’s vehicles.
Significance of Road Safety
Road transport is a key pillar of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to national development. Unfortunately, this growth has also seen an increase in road accidents and fatalities due to poor conditions, over speeding, distraction from mobile phone use while driving, and weak vehicle safety standards.
Additionally, the effects of road accidents go beyond just fatalities, impacting households economically and socially. According to a World Bank’s report from 2021, about 50% of women reported severe disruption to their lives due to a decline in household income post-accident.
Preventive Measures
A few proven methods can help control road accidents. These include implementation of E-challans to reduce corruption, installation of speed-detection devices like Radar Guns, introduction of improved safety measures such as Speed bumps and Roundabouts, stricter traffic rules with heavy fines, and mandatory vehicular safety standards.
Interestingly, bystanders also play a significant role in post-crash care by activating emergency systems and providing immediate aid until professional help arrives. Training and capacity-building initiatives can also help improve road safety by equipping more individuals with essential knowledge and skills.
Initiatives Related to Road Safety
At the global level, India has signed the Brasilia Declaration on Road Safety, setting a target to halve the number of global deaths and injuries from road traffic accidents by 2030. The country also participates in the UN-backed Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, which aims to prevent at least 50% of road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030.
At the national level, several legislative measures have been introduced to enhance road safety. These include the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act, 2019, which increases penalties for traffic violations; The Carriage by Road Act, 2007, which regulates common carriers; The Control of National Highways (Land and Traffic) Act, 2000, aimed at controlling land within and traffic on national highways; and the National Highways Authority of India Act, 1998, established for the development, maintenance, and management of National Highways.
Improving road safety is essential not just for preserving lives but also for sustaining economic growth. As urbanization continues to increase, ensuring safe and efficient transportation will remain a key priority.
