Urgent Need for Road Transport System Overhaul Following Fatal Accidents on National Highways
A recent highway accident near Hyderabad highlights India's poor road safety record. The editorial criticizes the lack of infrastructure like dividers, streetlights, and signages on major highways. It points out that while human error is often blamed, deeper vehicular and infrastructural issues remain unaddressed. The current licensing system focuses on basic skill tests rather than safe driving practices. The article calls for the implementation of Indian Roads Congress guidelines, better pedestrian infrastructure, and an overhaul of the corrupt RTO system to reduce the high fatality rate, which is particularly severe in states with inadequate trauma care.
Key Points
- India sees an average of over 400 road deaths daily, with pedestrians and two-wheeler riders being the most vulnerable groups.
- The licensing system is criticized for being 'broken and corrupt,' lacking safety training and rigorous testing for safe driving practices.
- National highways often fail to adhere to Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines due to a lack of state-level mandates under the Motor Vehicles Act.
- Inadequate trauma care infrastructure, especially in states like Bihar, significantly contributes to higher fatality rates compared to other regions.
Exam Facts
- National Highway 163 was the site of the recent major accident near Hyderabad.
- SaveLIFE Foundation advocates for 'License Seva Kendras' to digitize and transparentize the licensing process.
- Indian Roads Congress (IRC) provides the standard guidelines for highway infrastructure.
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