India has embarked on a significant mission to enhance road safety, aiming to reduce road accidents by 50% by the year 2030. This ambitious target was highlighted by Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, during the inauguration of the Global Road Infratech Summit & Expo (GRIS) in New Delhi. The summit, themed “Vision Zero: Sustainable Infratech and Policy for Safer Roads,” served as a platform to discuss and promote strategies for achieving zero fatalities on Indian roads.
The urgency of this initiative is underscored by alarming statistics. In 2022, India recorded approximately 480,000 road accidents, resulting in 180,000 fatalities and around 400,000 serious injuries. Notably, a significant proportion of these fatalities—140,000—occurred among individuals aged between 18 and 45, with two-wheeler riders and pedestrians being the most affected groups.
Beyond the tragic loss of life, road accidents impose a substantial economic burden on the country, accounting for an estimated 3% loss to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This economic impact stems from factors such as medical expenses, loss of productivity, and damage to infrastructure.
Minister Gadkari emphasized that a considerable number of these accidents can be attributed to deficiencies in road design, construction, and management. Issues such as inadequate civil engineering practices, substandard detailed project reports (DPRs), and improper road signage and marking systems have been identified as contributing factors. To address these challenges, the minister advocated for the adoption of best practices from countries like Spain, Austria, and Switzerland, which have demonstrated effective road safety measures.
The “Vision Zero” approach, which aims for zero fatalities or serious injuries on the road, has been successfully implemented in various countries and is now being pursued in India. A notable example is the Zero Fatality Corridor (ZFC) model developed by the Indian non-profit organization SaveLIFE Foundation. This model was first implemented on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, a 94.5 km stretch that, in 2016, reported 151 fatalities. Following the implementation of the ZFC initiative, there was a 52% reduction in road crash fatalities on this expressway by 2020.
The ZFC model operates on four key pillars: Engineering, Enforcement, Emergency Care, and Engagement. Engineering focuses on improving road infrastructure and design to mitigate errors. Enforcement involves enhancing law enforcement through technology and proven practices, such as deploying interceptor vehicles equipped with speed detection radars. Emergency Care aims to optimize the existing fleet of ambulances to build a “Chain of Survival,” ensuring timely and effective trauma response. Engagement involves influencing behavior change among road users through targeted communication and training programs.
The success of the ZFC model on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway has led to its replication in other states, including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Odisha. For instance, the Delhi government launched a Zero Fatality Corridor initiative to reduce road accidents, and Odisha signed a memorandum of understanding with SaveLIFE Foundation to improve road safety.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), in collaboration with SaveLIFE Foundation, is working to deploy the ZFC model on 12 additional corridors across India. These corridors include some of the highest fatality stretches in states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.
The government’s commitment to road safety extends beyond infrastructural improvements. There is a concerted effort to promote awareness of safer driving habits and to educate the public on road safety measures. Minister Gadkari has called upon the road construction industry to develop strategies that incorporate newer technologies and sustainable, recyclable construction materials. This holistic approach aims to create a safer driving environment while also promoting sustainability.
The economic rationale for investing in road safety is compelling. By reducing accidents, the country can alleviate the financial strain on healthcare systems, minimize productivity losses, and decrease the need for costly infrastructure repairs. Moreover, improved road safety can enhance the overall quality of life for citizens, fostering a sense of security and well-being.
Achieving the target of reducing road accidents by 50% by 2030 is undoubtedly challenging, but with concerted efforts from the government, industry stakeholders, and the public, it is an attainable goal. The integration of advanced technologies, adherence to best practices in road design and construction, stringent enforcement of traffic laws, and widespread public education are crucial components of this endeavor.
In conclusion, India’s resolve to enhance road safety reflects a deep commitment to protecting its citizens and promoting sustainable development. By addressing the multifaceted challenges associated with road safety through comprehensive strategies and collaborative efforts, the nation aims to transform its roads into safer spaces for all users.
