Mohd Younus Bhat
Road safety and traffic management are pressing issues in India. According to the Press Information Bureau Govt of India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ report for 2022, a total of 4,61,312 road accidents have been reported by States and Union Territories (UTs) during the calendar year 2022, which claimed 1,68,491 lives and caused injuries to 4,43,366 persons. This marks an increase of 11.9 percent in accidents, 9.4 percent in fatalities, and 15.3 percent in injuries compared to the previous year.
Despite efforts like the National Road Safety Policy and the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, of 2019, more needs to be done as road traffic injuries remain a leading cause of deaths and disabilities in India. It is important to prioritize road safety and traffic management, especially during harsh weather conditions in J&K. The government can adopt five key strategies to ensure road safety and effective traffic management, including learning from globally recognised cities with advanced road safety policies, investing in infrastructure maintenance, and enforcing road safety regulations. Collaborative efforts between central and state agencies, improved data collection and analysis systems, and dedicated central road safety funds are also essential to mitigate accidents caused by bad road conditions in India.
Smart Traffic Management Systems
Managing traffic flow efficiently and ensuring road safety is crucial. One way to achieve this is by implementing smart traffic management systems that can adapt to changing weather conditions. These systems can include smart traffic lights and sensors that can reduce congestion and enhance road safety. Additionally, weather-responsive traffic signals and dynamic message signs that provide real-time information to drivers about road conditions and closures can also be useful in managing traffic flow. By adopting such systems, we can make our roads safer and more efficient, even in harsh weather conditions.
Use of High-Durability Road Materials
It is essential to use high-quality, durable materials for constructing roads that can withstand extreme temperatures and heavy traffic. Moreover, investing in research and development of road materials that are resilient to freeze-thaw cycles would significantly reduce the need for frequent repairs after winter seasons, especially in J&K. Such an approach would improve the overall road infrastructure, ensuring safe and comfortable journeys for everyone.
E-Challan System for Traffic Violations
Implementing an electronic system, commonly known as e-challan, is undeniably the most efficient method for issuing traffic fines. By utilizing cameras and sensors, this system can effectively detect violations and ensure that traffic laws are properly enforced. I strongly recommend developing a customized e-challan system that incorporates cutting-edge technologies, such as thermal imaging cameras, that are capable of functioning effectively even in low-visibility and cold conditions. This approach will ensure that traffic laws are enforced year-round and contribute significantly to our roads’ safety.
Remote Surveillance and Emergency Response
To improve road safety and provide timely assistance, it is important to have a comprehensive system in place for traffic monitoring and emergency response. This can be achieved using CCTV cameras for traffic monitoring and quick response units for accidents and emergencies. In addition, it would be helpful to establish a network of remote surveillance cameras specifically designed for cold climates, along with emergency response teams that are trained for rapid deployment in snowbound areas. This will ensure that help arrives quickly in case of any mishap, and road safety is enhanced.
Public Awareness Campaigns
Continuously running campaigns to raise public awareness about road safety, with a specific focus on educating drivers and pedestrians. Additionally, launch extensive road safety programs before and during winters, emphasizing the distinct challenges presented by ice and snow. These programs could cover topics such as safe driving practices during winter, the significance of using winter tyres, and how to handle emergencies that may arise.
Collaboration to save the public exchequer:
Collaboration among the Public Health Engineering (PHE)/Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) and the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Departments is crucial for the sustainable development and maintenance of infrastructure. The unnecessary cutting and dismantling of roads by one department for the installation of pipelines or channels by othersresults in significant financial losses to the public exchequer and can disrupt the strategic planning of urban and rural spaces. To mitigate these issues and enhance the efficiency of infrastructure projects, a multidisciplinary approach involving town planners, architects, environmental specialists, and geologists is essential. Here are how such collaborations can be beneficial:
Integrated Planning and Execution
Joint planning sessions between various departments such as PHE/I&FC, R&B, town planners and architects can help make sure that all infrastructure projects are aligned with the broader urban development goals. Similarly, creating a shared database of existing and planned infrastructure can also help prevent overlapping projects and minimize road dismantling.
Consultation with Specialists
Environmental Impact Assessments and Geological Surveys are both important steps to ensure that projects are environmentally sustainable. By involving environmental specialists and collaborating with geologists in the planning stages, potential impacts on the ecosystem and terrain can be identified and addressed accordingly. This can lead to the implementation of best practices for laying pipelines and minimizing road damage, ultimately resulting in a more sustainable and responsible project.
Policy and Guidelines Development
Policymakers must fully understand and acknowledge the importance of developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for infrastructure projects. Adhering to best practices can significantly reduce unnecessary road cuts, which can help minimize disruptions and improve overall efficiency. Additionally, implementing regulations that require inter-departmental consultation and approval before the commencement of any project that involves road cutting can help ensure that all parties are on the same page and can reduce unplanned disruptions.
Technological Integration
GIS mapping tools are incredibly useful in planning infrastructure projects, as they provide accurate information about the existing utilities and road networks. This can help avoid potential issues and save time and money in the long run. Additionally, investing in advanced detection technologies like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) can also greatly reduce the need for exploratory road cuts. GPR is a highly effective way of detecting underground utilities and can help ensure that infrastructure projects are completed safely and efficiently.
Public Engagement and Transparency
It is always important to involve the community in the planning stages of infrastructure projects. This can provide valuable feedback and help increase public support for the project. Additionally, making information about ongoing and upcoming projects accessible to the public can foster a sense of trust and accountability. Transparency is key when it comes to building trust and ensuring that everyone is on the same page.
In conclusion, the adoption and adaptation of these strategies can significantly enhance road safety and traffic management, even in challenging winter weather conditions. These measures promise to improve the safety of drivers and pedestrians while also ensuring a robust and efficient road infrastructure throughout the year in J&K. By fostering collaboration among the PHE/I&FC and R&B departments and involving experts from different fields, it is possible to preserve roads and infrastructure, save costs, and ensure that development projects are sustainable, environmentally friendly, and aligned with the region’s long-term planning goals. Such an integrated approach not only protects the public exchequer but also contributes to the creation of resilient and well-planned urban and rural environments.
(The author is Senior Research Scholar)
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