Minister lays stress on designing safer roads

New Delhi, July 25

Ajay Tamta, Minister of State, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing road safety across India at the Eighth Road Safety Conference, titled “Future for Safe Ecosystem through Innovative & Sustainable Solutions.”

The conference, organised by Assocham, the oldest apex chamber of India, brought together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders to address the pressing issue of road safety.

“To achieve significant improvement in road safety, the government is committed to raising awareness in this regard and reviewing standards for the design of rural and urban roads,” said Tamta.

He announced a recent initiative by the National Highways Authority of India—a knowledge-sharing platform aimed at facilitating collaboration between specialists and citizens on road design, construction and environmental sustainability. “This platform will help us work together to exchange knowledge and innovative best practices,” he added.

Tamta also highlighted the diverse types of road accidents that occur under various conditions and stressed the importance of designing safer roads. “Designing future roads to prevent accidents is crucial. The annual impact of road incidents includes not only casualties but permanent damage,” he noted, underscoring the urgent need for improved road safety measures.

The conference brought attention to the alarming statistics surrounding road accidents. Shive Keshari Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic, HQ), Delhi Police, provided insights into the timing and nature of accidents. “Most accidents happen at night. We urge people to be safe while driving and to stay aware of road safety,” Singh stated.