Jan 7, 2025 by admin Blog

Road Safety and the Power of Behavioral Change: 7 Key Government Policies Driving Safer Roads in India

India is home to one of the largest road networks in the world. While these roads are lifelines for mobility and commerce, they also bear the unfortunate distinction of witnessing many road accidents every year. Alarmingly, road crashes claim over 150,000 lives annually in India, a staggering figure that highlights the urgent need for behavioral change among road users. The government has recognized this challenge and implemented several impactful policies to instill safer practices on the roads.

This blog explores seven key government policies that are driving this change and paving the way for safer roads across India.

1. The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019

The Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, is a game-changer in India’s road safety landscape. By introducing stricter penalties for traffic violations like overspeeding, drunk driving, and helmet non-compliance, the act aims to deter reckless behavior. Fines for these offenses have increased significantly, emphasizing accountability and discipline on the roads.

Key Benefits:

Encourages adherence to traffic laws.
Promotes responsible driving behavior.
Reduces road fatalities caused by preventable violations.

Source: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

2. National Road Safety Policy

India’s National Road Safety Policy outlines a robust framework for reducing road accidents and fatalities. It emphasizes public awareness, road safety education, and training programs for drivers and road users.

Highlights of the Policy:

Road safety campaigns to create awareness.
Driver training initiatives to instill responsible behavior.
Partnerships with stakeholders to enhance road safety.

Source: National Road Safety Policy

3. School Transport Safety Guidelines

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has issued specific guidelines to ensure the safety of children commuting to school. These include mandatory speed governors, GPS tracking, and periodic training for school bus drivers.

Why It Matters:

Protects the most vulnerable road users—children.
Instills early awareness of road safety in young minds.
Provides parents with confidence in school transport systems.

Source: School Bus Guidelines

4. Helmet and Seat Belt Mandates

The government has made it mandatory for all two-wheeler riders and passengers to wear helmets and for occupants of four-wheelers to use seat belts. Enforcement drives and awareness campaigns have helped embed these safety measures into daily routines.

Impact of the Policy:

Reduces head injuries in accidents.
Encourages a culture of safety for all vehicle occupants.
Saves thousands of lives each year.

5. Good Samaritan Law

Bystanders often hesitate to help accident victims due to fear of legal or procedural complications. The Good Samaritan Law alleviates these concerns by offering legal protection to individuals who assist victims in emergencies.

How It Helps:

Encourages timely medical intervention.
Reduces fatalities by ensuring quicker access to help.
Builds a culture of empathy and shared responsibility.

6. Fit India Movement for Roads

Road safety is increasingly being integrated into the broader “Fit India Movement.” This initiative encourages individuals to maintain not only physical fitness but also road fitness by adopting responsible driving habits and maintaining vehicle safety standards.

Focus Areas:

Promoting regular vehicle maintenance.
Educating citizens on the link between road safety and well-being.
Encouraging safer behaviors for better road conditions.

7. Safe Systems Approach

Adopting the globally recognized “Safe Systems” approach, India is working towards designing roads that are forgiving of human errors. This includes better road infrastructure, segregated lanes for vulnerable road users, and traffic-calming measures.

Key Components:

Improved road designs to minimize risks.
Enhanced pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Focus on reducing the severity of accidents.

Special Focus: Karnataka’s Rules for Child Safety

In Karnataka, the government has implemented specific rules to enhance child safety, particularly for those traveling on two-wheelers. A recent mandate requires children under four years old riding as pillion passengers to be secured with a safety harness. Riders failing to comply with this rule face a fine of ₹500.

This regulation aligns with the Central Motor Vehicles Act, 2019, which stresses the use of safety harnesses for young children. The initiative gained momentum following a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Karnataka High Court, prompting stricter enforcement of child safety measures. Additionally, the Karnataka State Road Safety Policy, 2015, emphasizes creating a safer environment for children through education, infrastructure improvements, and stringent law enforcement.