In a decisive move to bolster road safety and protect national assets, authorities have been directed to take stringent action against illegal activities and safety violations on expressways and national highways. The directive follows growing concerns over unauthorised cuts on road dividers, the presence of stray animals, and various other safety hazards that compromise the integrity of India’s transportation infrastructure.
Officials are now mandated to promptly register First Information Reports (FIRs) in instances where such illegal activities cause damage to national assets. This measure aims to ensure that those responsible for endangering public safety and degrading national property are held accountable without delay.
The list of concerns addressed includes the unauthorised creation of cuts in road dividers, which disrupt traffic flow and increase the risk of accidents. The menace of stray animals on roads has also been highlighted, posing significant dangers to motorists. Additionally, the damage inflicted on national assets by encroachment and the lack of adequate signage boards have been identified as critical issues requiring immediate attention.
Furthermore, the safety of work zones on highways has come under scrutiny. Insufficient safety measures in these areas not only put the workers at risk but also endanger the lives of commuters. The authorities have been tasked with ensuring that work zones adhere to the highest safety standards to prevent accidents and injuries.
Encroachment on highways has been a persistent problem, obstructing the free flow of traffic and leading to congestion. The new directive calls for robust enforcement to remove these encroachments, thereby improving road safety and efficiency.
The delay in initiating rescue operations during accidents has also been a matter of concern. Rapid response is crucial in saving lives and mitigating the severity of injuries in the aftermath of road accidents. Therefore, the authorities have been instructed to streamline and expedite rescue operations to ensure timely assistance to accident victims.
In summary, this comprehensive approach to enhancing highway safety and protecting national assets signifies a significant shift in the government’s road safety policy. The immediate registration of FIRs for illegal activities serves as a strong deterrent against violations, ensuring that the rule of law is upheld on expressways and national highways. The focus on improving work zone safety, eliminating encroachments, and enhancing signage and enforcement measures is expected to lead to safer and more efficient roadways across the country.
As these measures take effect, they are anticipated to not only reduce accidents and enhance safety but also preserve the integrity of national infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more secure and orderly transportation network.