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India faces a grave road safety crisis, recording approximately 1.73 lakh fatalities in 2023, translating to 474 deaths daily. Despite multiple government interventions, the country continues to report one of the highest road fatality rates globally, highlighting systemic challenges in road safety governance.

Factors Behind India’s High Road Fatality Rates

• Over-Speeding and Traffic Violations: Accidents are attributed to over-speeding, drunken driving and wrong-side driving.
• Poor Road Infrastructure: Inadequate road conditions, such as damaged speed breakers and unmarked construction zones, increase accident risks.
• Lack of Pedestrian Safety Measures: Initiatives like signal-free corridors in cities have prioritized vehicle flow over pedestrian safety, forcing people to navigate dangerous crossings.
  Example: Pune’s signal-free roads have sparked concerns regarding pedestrian safety as they prioritize vehicles over pedestrians.
• Negligence in Safety Enforcement: Despite directives, institutions often neglect enforcing safety measures.
• Delayed Infrastructure Projects: Projects like underpasses remain incomplete due to delays and lack of safety installations.
  

Structural Challenges in Road Safety Governance

• Fragmented Institutional Framework: Road safety responsibilities are divided among various agencies, leading to poor coordination and accountability.
• Inadequate Data Collection and Analysis: Lack of comprehensive and timely data hampers the formulation of effective road safety policies.
  Example: The India Status Report on Road Safety 2024 highlights slow progress in reducing fatalities due to inadequate data systems.
• Insufficient Funding and Resources: Limited financial and human resources constrain the implementation of safety measures and infrastructure improvements.
  Example: Southern Railway’s full funding of 55 road overbridges in Kerala reflects the challenge of mobilizing adequate funds elsewhere.
• Weak Enforcement Mechanisms: Enforcement of traffic laws is often inconsistent, reducing their deterrent effect on violators.
• Limited Public Awareness and Education: There is a lack of widespread awareness campaigns to educate the public on road safety norms and best practices.
  Example: Initiatives like those of the SaveLIFE Foundation highlight the need for increased public education on road safety.

Roadmap for Systemic Reform in Road Safety Governance

• Establish a Unified Road Safety Authority: Creating a central body to oversee and coordinate road safety initiatives can enhance accountability and efficiency.
  Example: The World Bank recommends a lead agency to unify and coordinate road safety efforts across India.
• Implement Comprehensive Data Systems: Developing robust data collection and analysis mechanisms will inform targeted interventions and policy decisions.
  Example: The India Status Report on Road Safety 2024 emphasizes the need for comprehensive data systems to inform policy.
• Increase Investment in Infrastructure: Allocating more funds for road maintenance, signage, and pedestrian facilities will improve overall safety.
• Strengthen Law Enforcement: Enhancing the capacity and consistency of traffic law enforcement will deter violations and promote compliance.
  Example: The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019 aimed to improve enforcement through stricter penalties.
• Promote Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching nationwide education programs will raise awareness about road safety and encourage responsible behavior.
  Example: The Good Samaritan Law campaign has improved public awareness and participation in saving accident victims.

India’s persistent road safety challenges stem from a combination of infrastructural deficiencies, enforcement gaps, and governance issues. Addressing these requires a holistic approach involving institutional reforms, increased investment, and public engagement to create safer roads for all.