Enhancing Indian Road Safety: The Urgent Need for Timely MVA Amendments and Policy Reforms

By S Saroja and Bhargab Maitra

Since gaining independence in 1947, India has transformed significantly. Once, our roads were little more than dirt paths, and many people had limited mobility. Today, we boast vast road networks and an economy on the rise. Yet, our journey is far from complete. By 2047, we aim to be a developed economy.

The evolution of our roads captures this change perfectly. They have grown from rough bullock-cart trails to modern expressways. Yet, behind this progress lies a serious issue: over 462 people lose their lives daily on Indian roads, according to government statistics. This is not just a tragedy for families, but also an economic burden, costing our nation approximately 3% of GDP.

The government recognizes this crisis and has set an ambitious goal to reduce road accidents by 50% by 2030. To reach this target, road safety must become a national priority.

For real change, we need updated road safety laws, particularly the Motor Vehicles Act, along with strong policies to support them. It’s essential to take a holistic approach, emphasizing safer roads, vehicles, users, and effective post-crash responses.

Building a Safer System

Every road user—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—makes mistakes and is vulnerable. A system that minimizes the risk of serious accidents is crucial. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is working on making roads safer, but we also need to improve vehicle safety and support for road users.

For instance, newer vehicles generally have better safety features than older ones. However, older vehicles often lack these protections, especially on high-speed roads. This gap can undermine the benefits of improved infrastructure.

Child safety is another concern. While restraint systems exist for cars, they don’t fit motorcycles. Current laws don’t address this adequately. Expanding regulations to suit different vehicles can save lives. Timely medical care is vital too. Ensuring prompt assistance for accident victims can dramatically affect survival rates.

Speed Limit Management

Speed plays a major role in accidents. Yet, speed limits in India often prioritize convenience over safety. They aren’t based on scientific data that considers the type of road and its usage. We need evidence-based guidelines for speed limit management that account for local conditions.

West Bengal has recently introduced zone-specific speed limits, capping the maximum at 50 km/h in sensitive areas like schools. This innovative approach aims to reduce accidents. Similar strategies are essential across the country.

Inclusive Road Infrastructure

Accessibility remains a challenge. Highways often disrupt local communities without proper service roads. This poses risks for residents and undermines highway safety. Additionally, non-motorized users, like pedestrians, often face significant challenges.

The Supreme Court has recently emphasized that accessible footpaths are part of the right to life, underscoring the need for user-friendly infrastructure. Standardized paths, crossings, and designated lanes for cyclists are necessary to enhance safety for all users.

Collaboration for Better Safety

Improving road safety requires cooperation among various sectors. Ministries must work together with active participation from communities and academic institutions. A National Road Safety Action Plan, aligned with Supreme Court guidelines, should guide states in creating tailored safety plans.

Stakeholder training and solid policy support are vital for building a safer road environment. Collaborative efforts can harness innovation and evidence-based strategies for better outcomes.

Recognizing Road Safety as a Public Health Issue

We must treat road safety as a public health crisis. Thousands die preventably each year, especially vulnerable groups. By integrating road safety into national health policies, we can make smarter investments in safety and save lives.

As our roads evolve and technology advances, we must stay ahead. Updating the Motor Vehicles Act and implementing timely reforms are crucial for a safer future. India’s growth depends on a serious commitment to road safety. By taking comprehensive action, we can create safer and more efficient roads, supporting an inclusive and sustainable development vision by 2047.

(Saroja is the Executive Director at the Citizen Consumer and Civic Action Group (CAG) and Bhargab Maitra is Dean (Students’ Affairs) and a Professor in the Civil Engineering Department at IIT Kharagpur)

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