Improving Highway Safety with Mandatory Safety Devices
In a bid to tackle the alarming increase in accidents on highways, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has put forth a groundbreaking proposal. Minister Nitin Gadkari announced that MoRTH is working towards finalizing a draft notification that will make the installation of safety devices mandatory for all heavy vehicles.
Essential Safety Systems for Heavy Vehicles
Under this new proposal, heavy commercial vehicles will be required to have Electronic Stability Control System, Emergency Braking System, and Driver Drowsiness Alert and Safety System installed. These crucial safety systems aim to enhance safety on highways and reduce the devastating toll of accidents, where approximately 33,000 out of 172,000 individuals lost their lives due to collisions involving trucks in 2023.
Driving Training Centers and Automated Testing Clusters
During a recent two-day workshop with state transport ministers and secretaries, Gadkari highlighted the importance of road safety initiatives. The ministry unveiled a ₹4,500 crore centrally funded scheme to establish driving training centers and automated testing clusters across the country. With a shortage of 22 lakh skilled drivers in India, this policy seeks to bridge the gap by providing proper training and employment opportunities for millions of individuals.
Healthcare Scheme for Road Accident Victims
Continuing their efforts to prioritize road safety, MoRTH is set to launch a nationwide healthcare scheme for road accident victims. This scheme will offer cashless treatment to victims during the critical golden hour following an accident, covering hospitalization expenses up to ₹1.5 lakh per person per accident. Additionally, hit and run victims will receive ₹2 lakh in compensation to aid in their recovery.
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In a heartwarming turn of events, let me share a personal story highlighting the importance of road safety and the impact it can have on individuals and families. Just last year, my close friend was involved in a serious accident on the highway due to a negligent driver. The incident left him with life-altering injuries and a long road to recovery.
Reflecting on this experience, I realize the significance of initiatives like the mandatory safety devices proposal by MoRTH. These measures not only have the potential to save lives but also prevent countless families from enduring the pain and trauma of road accidents. By investing in driving training centers and healthcare schemes, we are not just improving highway safety but also fostering a culture of responsibility and care on our roads.
So, the next time you hit the road, remember that safety is not just a regulation—it’s a commitment to protecting yourself and those around you. Let’s drive towards a safer future, one where accidents are preventable, and lives are safeguarded.
