Bosch study finds socio-economic cost of road accidents
Passenger cars account for the largest share of road accidents in India.
The above findings are part of a study by Bosch. The findings were released during the United Nations Global Road Safety Week. It is organized by the World Health Organization (WHO). Additionally, the report also states that
India has the highest number of road accidents in the world. Pedestrians are 99% likely to get hurt on the road in India.
Injuries due to road accidents are a major cause of death and disability worldwide. About 1.3 million people die in road accidents every year, and about 50 million are injured.
Global initiatives for road safety –
Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030
- It aims to reduce deaths and injuries due to road accidents by 50% by 2030.
- Road safety initiative of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).
- A global coalition of non-governmental organizations has been formed for road safety.
Initiatives for road safety in India
- Vehicle safety standards have been further improved by the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 (MVA) and penalties have also been increased for violation of rules.
- National Road Safety Board (NRSB) has been notified under the MVA.
- India has signed the Brasilia Declaration. Along with this, commitment has also been made to reduce the deaths in road accidents.
- The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has adopted a 4E strategy, namely Education, Engineering (Roads/Vehicles), Enforcement and Emergency care.
- A scheme has been launched to reward Good Samaritans who help victims of dangerous accidents.
Source – Business Standard
