The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in India is crafting a comprehensive strategy to enhance road safety by creating dedicated lanes for two-wheelers on state highways and urban roads. This initiative is part of a broader effort to segregate different types of traffic and reduce the alarming rate of road accidents in the country.
Addressing High Accident Rates
Two-wheelers are involved in nearly 44% of road crashes and fatalities in India, making them a significant focus for the ministry’s new safety measures. Pedestrians also face considerable risks, accounting for 17% of crashes and 19% of fatalities. The new strategy aims to address these issues by providing safer infrastructure for both two-wheelers and pedestrians.
New Infrastructure Developments
To improve pedestrian safety, the ministry plans to construct foot-over bridges (FOBs) and underpasses along major urban roads. These structures will offer safer crossing options and minimize interactions with vehicular traffic, which is expected to reduce pedestrian fatalities significantly.
Consultation Paper ‘SAFE’
The ministry’s approach is detailed in a consultation paper titled ‘SAFE,’ which outlines various strategies to lower road crash rates and fatalities. The paper draws inspiration from Malaysia, where the implementation of dedicated corridors for two-wheelers has led to a substantial decrease in traffic accidents.
Road Safety Education and Workshops
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the ministry proposes incorporating road safety education into school curriculums and organizing annual road safety workshops. These educational initiatives aim to foster a culture of safety among the younger population and ensure long-term improvements in road safety awareness.
Centrally-Sponsored Scheme
The implementation of these safety measures is planned under a centrally-sponsored scheme (CSS), with an estimated budget of ₹14,000 crore. The funding model involves a significant contribution from the central government, amounting to ₹9,948 crore, while the remaining ₹4,053 crore will be provided by states and Union Territories (UTs).
Core Components of the Scheme
The scheme is structured around three core components:
Mandatory Initiatives: These are essential safety measures that require immediate implementation across all states. They include the creation of dedicated two-wheeler lanes and pedestrian infrastructure.
Target-Linked Initiatives: These measures are contingent on achieving specific road safety metrics. States and UTs must meet certain targets to receive additional funding and support.
State Road Safety Ranking Interventions: This component aims to incentivize improvements in road safety practices by ranking states based on their performance in reducing road accidents and fatalities.
Government’s Commitment to Road Safety
The Indian government is committed to significantly reducing road accidents and fatalities through these targeted interventions. By segregating traffic types and improving pedestrian infrastructure, the ministry aims to create a safer environment for all road users.
Final Thoughts
With the introduction of dedicated two-wheeler lanes and enhanced pedestrian safety measures, India is taking a significant step towards improving road safety. These initiatives, supported by substantial funding and a well-structured implementation plan, reflect the government’s dedication to reducing road accidents and saving lives. The success of these measures will depend on effective execution and the cooperation of state governments, but the potential benefits for road users across the country are substantial.
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