Road Safety – An Urgent & Growing Concern in India
Road safety is an urgent and growing concern in India, and despite efforts made over the years, road fatalities continue to rise. According to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), in 2023, road accidents claimed over 1.7 lakh lives, marking the highest annual toll ever recorded. With an average of 474 deaths daily, the severity of the issue has increased, accompanied by a rise in injuries to nearly 4.63 lakh people, indicating a growing road safety crisis in India.
This statistic is not just alarming but speaks about the urgent need for coordinated action to save lives and reduce the social and economic impact of road accidents. The numbers reflect both a tragedy and an opportunity for meaningful intervention. The International Road Federation (IRF) a Geneva based global road safety body working for better and safer roads worldwide has been actively involved in promoting road safety in India for over a decade, running impactful campaigns and implementing strategies aimed at raising awareness, influencing policy, and advancing road safety measures.
Some of IRF initiatives have included Road Safety Education Campaigns: We have conducted multiple campaigns across key Indian states, focusing on educating drivers, pedestrians, and local authorities about safe road behaviours, traffic rules, and the use of safety equipment like helmets and seatbelts. Advocacy for Safer Infrastructure Through technical workshops and expert consultations, we have worked with local governments and road agencies to advocate for the implementation of safer road designs, better signage, and intelligent traffic management systems.
Partnering with Corporates and NGOs: IRF has partnered with corporate entities and non-governmental organisations to fund and execute road safety interventions, including the installation of speed cameras, the development of safer pedestrian zones, and the creation of digital platforms for reporting unsafe driving.
Public-Private Collaboration for Policy Change: IRF has actively lobbied for stronger enforcement of traffic laws and greater investment in road infrastructure. In collaboration with local authorities, we have worked to bring about policy changes that will promote safer road environments, especially in high-risk urban areas.
Despite our collective efforts, India remains one of the most dangerous places for road users. It is, therefore, essential to galvanise public awareness, political will, and continuous engagement at every level of society. As the citizen of the nation and someone who embodies India’s values and aspirations, you are in a unique position to further this cause, leverage your leadership to create lasting change.
IRF has written and suggested to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways for Incorporating Road Safety into their Daily Addresses: Given their regular engagements with the public, including national addresses and social media interactions, incorporating the topic of road safety into these platforms would greatly amplify the message. A brief mention of road safety, the importance of obeying traffic rules, and reducing road fatalities could reach millions of people, especially younger audiences.
National Road Safety Month: By championing the establishment of a National Road Safety Month, where events are organised across India, the issue can be brought to the forefront of national consciousness. This could include safety campaigns, road safety awards, and discussions with experts and stakeholders.
Support for Road Safety Infrastructure Initiatives: Whenever possible, the government-backed infrastructure projects that focus on road safety can be highlighted. For example, showcasing the installation of Automated Traffic Management System (ATMS) along various highways, or the launch of public awareness drives, would signal a strong government commitment to improving safety on the roads.
Partnering with Local Leaders: Local and regional leaders could be encouraged to adopt road safety as a key focus in their constituencies, making it a part of their daily conversations and leadership. This approach would create a grassroots momentum for change.
Spreading the Road Safety Anthem prepared by IRF in 23 Indian languages and 10 foreign languages.
IRF has developed a Two-Wheeler Ambulance: With the help of DRDO, we have produced a two-wheeler Ambulance, which has since been approved by the CMVR Committee and is now ready for production. IRF has come up with a helmet which, if one does not wear, the two-wheeler will not start. It is requested that its usage be made mandatory.
Two-wheeler Airbags: IRF has also come up with two Airbags for two wheeler drivers and pillion riders. These also need to be made compulsory.
(KK Kapila is President Emeritus, International Road Federation)