Road Safety in India: 45% of Fatalities Involve Two-Wheelers, Says Harsh Malhotra

New Delhi, April 10: Road accidents continue to be a significant issue in India, claiming approximately 180,000 lives each year. Harsh Malhotra, the Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, revealed that nearly 45% of these fatalities are linked to two-wheeler vehicles. He urged the youth to raise awareness about road safety and set an example for others.

While inaugurating the third edition of the ‘Uttarakhand Adventure Ride’ organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the minister emphasized the necessity of road safety awareness. He stated that this initiative represents a crucial step towards responsible road usage across the country.

Malhotra noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the nation has seen rapid development and modernization of roads. However, he stressed that personal responsibility for safety on the roads lies with individuals and is dependent on their behavior.

He mentioned that the government is improving road engineering, addressing hazardous locations (black spots), and strictly enforcing regulations through laws like the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. Additionally, emergency services are being enhanced.

The minister also referenced the ‘PM Relief Scheme’ and the ‘Raha-Veer Scheme,’ aimed at providing timely assistance to victims of road accidents. He highlighted the importance of instilling safe driving habits from childhood and youth to foster a strong culture of road discipline in the country.

Malhotra praised the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry for organizing the Uttarakhand Adventure Ride, which brings together various individuals and organizations. He noted that this initiative connects adventure tourism with awareness, effectively spreading the crucial message of road safety to diverse segments of society.

He elaborated on the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ 4E strategy—Engineering, Enforcement, Education, and Emergency Care—stating that this strategy forms the foundation of road safety in India.

Furthermore, the minister explained that technology’s role in improving road safety is continually increasing. AI-based traffic monitoring systems, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), automated enforcement systems, and FASTag facilities are being utilized to make traffic safer and more efficient.

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DKP/