New Road Safety Initiatives Aim to Curb Traffic Fatalities in India
New Delhi, India – In a concerted effort to tackle the high incidence of road accidents, India has launched several new initiatives aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing fatalities. Despite having the second-largest road network in the world, India continues to struggle with a high rate of road accidents, making road safety a critical public health issue.
Zero Fatality Corridors
One of the standout initiatives is the “Zero Fatality Corridor” (ZFC) project, which has shown promising results. The project on NH 48, the old Mumbai-Pune Highway, has achieved a 61% reduction in fatalities between 2018 and 2021. This success is attributed to comprehensive interventions across the 4Es of road safety: Engineering, Education, Enforcement, and Emergency Care (iRAP).
Implementation of Good Practices
The International Road Assessment Programme (iRAP) has highlighted several good practices in road safety management in India. These include corridor-based, network-based, and state-based interventions that have led to sustained reductions in road crash fatalities. These interventions are now being documented and shared as part of an evidence-based reference guide to help other regions replicate these successes (iRAP).
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently reiterated the government's commitment to road safety, acknowledging the severe issue of road accidents despite extensive road networks. Gadkari emphasized the importance of multi-faceted strategies, including improved road infrastructure, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and better emergency response systems (Hindustan Times).
National and International Collaboration
India is also working closely with international bodies to align with global road safety standards. Efforts include adopting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal of halving road deaths and serious injuries. Collaborative actions with international partners aim to develop robust policies and practical tools to ensure safer roads (iRAP) (Hindustan Times).
These initiatives mark a significant step towards safer roads in India, but sustained effort and widespread adoption of best practices will be crucial to achieve long-term success in reducing road traffic fatalities.
