Noting that India accounts for over 12 per cent of the annual road fatalities of 12.4 million worldwide, Road and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari said the ministry has set a target to reduce number of road accidents by 50 per cent in next five years.
“This is really alarming and we need to take immediate steps to ensure the safety of our citizens. The ministry has decided to identify black spots or accident-prone areas on the national highways and develop them to reduce such incidents,” he said.
“In the first phase we have identified 726 spots on national highways and have decided to spend Rs 11,000 crore to improve these areas. Through this initiative, I want to reduce the number of accidents by at least 50 per cent,” Gadkari said, adding that he will approach the Finance Ministry for financial assistance to states and local bodies for taking up such projects.
He expressed hope that the Road Transport and Safety Bill 2015 will be passed in the Budget session itself.
“The Road Safety Bill is very important for me. Since motor vehicle laws fall in the Concurrent List, we need the approval of the states and many are already cooperating with us. We need political support for this Bill in the interest of the people. I believe we will be able to pass it the next Parliament session," Gadkari said. He said the Bill has been prepared in consultation with experts from Britain, the US, Japan, Germany and Singapore.