Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) met under the chairmanship of Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways Shri Nitin Gadkari to address critical issue of road safety. Shri Harsh Malhotra and Shri Ajay Tamta, Ministers of State for Road Transport & Highways, were also present.

The meet emphasizing focused on “Measures for Reduction in Road Accidents and Fatalities”, emphasizing a multi-pronged and coordinated approach to curb road accidents and save lives. The Chairman, NHAI, briefed the Committee on the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and reduce accidents on National Highways.

This was followed by a detailed presentation by the Additional Secretary (Transport), outlining key initiatives under the four pillars of road safety—Engineering, Enforcement, Education, and Emergency Care. The presentation highlighted achievements so far, existing challenges, and the need to strengthen current measures while introducing new road safety interventions. The Secretary, RT&H, also apprised the Committee about the development of AI-enabled road safety technologies in collaboration with IIT Kanpur.

While appreciating the initiatives undertaken by the Ministry, the Committee Members expressed concern over the persistently high number of road accidents and fatalities across the country. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy involving engineering improvements, enhanced public awareness, and effective enforcement mechanisms.

Members raised key issues relating to rectification of black spots, widening of select National Highway stretches, availability of trauma care facilities along highways, enhancement of compensation for road accident victims, road maintenance and repairs, and coordination with State Governments for State Highways. Concerns were also expressed over the irregular conduct of Members of Parliament Road Safety Committee (MPRSC) meetings at the district level, absence of proper road markings, and poor quality of signages and reflectors. It was suggested that landslide-prone locations be identified on the lines of black spots and appropriate corrective measures be undertaken. Other suggestions included inclusion of road safety in school curricula, establishment of a Centre for Road Safety, and setting up at least one trauma centre in each district.

Responding to the concerns, Shri Nitin Gadkari informed the Committee that 30 GHz radio frequency has been allocated by the Department of Telecommunications for the development of vehicle-to-vehicle communication systems, which will help reduce road accidents and fatalities. He urged Members to impress upon State authorities the importance of conducting regular MPRSC meetings in their respective districts with participation from the District Collector, Police, PWD, and other concerned agencies.

Minister further stated that road safety considerations are being duly incorporated while finalising Detailed Project Reports (DPRs). He directed the Regional Officers and Project Directors of MoRTH/NHAI to attend MPRSC meetings regularly and ensure suitable road safety interventions in ongoing projects. He also informed that AI-based road safety applications would be shared with States and UTs and requested Members to submit detailed notes on their concerns and suggestions for further examination.

During the meeting, the Minister also showcased the Road Safety Anthem, which has been translated into 22 regional languages. He requested the Hon’ble Members of Parliament to promote the playing of the Road Safety Anthem in regional languages in schools, public gatherings, and other public spaces.

Union Minister motivated all officers to continue making dedicated efforts towards building safer road infrastructure across the country and reiterated the Government’s commitment to saving lives on Indian roads.

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GDH/SJ

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