On the challenges to road safety in India

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 10)

 Overview and Key Findings of the Study

• Insufficient Progress: India is lagging in meeting international road safety goals.
• Data Analysis: Study used FIR data from six States and audits of road safety governance.
• High Fatality Rates: Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable; truck crashes are frequent.
• Public Health Challenge: Road traffic injuries are a major health issue, with minimal progress in reducing fatalities.
• Disparities: Significant differences in road safety performance across States.

Global Comparison

• India vs. Developed Countries: In 2021, Indians were 600% more likely to die in road accidents compared to people in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries, up from 40% more likely in 1990.

Why is crash surveillance necessary?

• Crash surveillance is essential because it provides detailed, accurate data on road traffic incidents, which is critical for effective public policy and intervention.
• Without a national crash-level database, current statistics, derived from aggregated FIRs, are often inaccurate and inadequate for thorough analysis.
• This data gap hinders targeted road safety measures, effective program evaluation, and accurate understanding of risks, impeding progress in reducing road traffic fatalities.

Issue of Road Safety in India

• Data Limitations: No national crash-level database; reliance on aggregated FIRs and audits.
• Disparities: Per capita death rates vary widely among States.
• High Risk Groups: Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists are the most affected.
• Helmet Usage: Low in rural areas; only seven States have over 50% helmet usage.
• State Variability: Some States lack basic safety measures and adequate trauma care facilities.

Recommendations

• Establish National Database: Create a national crash-level database to guide policy and interventions.
• Improve Data Accuracy: Address inaccuracies in existing road safety statistics through continuous monitoring.
• Increase Helmet Usage: Promote helmet use, especially in rural areas, through stricter enforcement and awareness.
• Audit and Upgrade Infrastructure: Ensure comprehensive audits of National and State Highways; improve safety features like traffic calming, markings, and signage.
• Tailored Strategies: Develop State-specific road safety strategies to address unique challenges.
• Enhance Trauma Care: Upgrade trauma care facilities to better handle road traffic injuries.
• Prioritise Interventions: Central and State governments should scale up road safety interventions and public access to data.