Addressing the 8th Road Safety Conference on “Future for Safe Ecosystem through Innovative & Sustainable Solutions,” organised by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), Shri Ajay Tamta, Minister of State, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, underscored the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures in India. The government is committed to raising awareness about road safety and reviewing standards for designing rural and urban roads to achieve significant improvements.
A recent initiative by the National Highways Authority of India involves a knowledge-sharing platform for exchanging innovative practices. This platform allows specialists and citizens to share insights on road design, construction, safety, and environmental sustainability, thereby improving overall road safety.
Shri Tamta highlighted various accident types across different conditions and stressed the importance of designing future roads to prevent accidents. He also discussed the annual impact of road incidents, including permanent injuries and fatalities.
Shri Tamta commended ASSOCHAM for organising the conference and bringing together experts and stakeholders, including young future road users. He praised ASSOCHAM’s road safety initiative in schools, in collaboration with BMW India Foundation.
Mr. Shive Keshari Singh, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic, HQ), Delhi Police, emphasised that most accidents occur at night and urged people to be cautious and aware of road safety. He pointed out that two-wheelers and pedestrians account for over 75% of accidents.
Mr. Anil Rajput, Chairperson, ASSOCHAM National CSR Council, highlighted the critical nature of road safety and the government’s proactive measures over the past decade. These measures include increased awareness, education, innovation in road infrastructure, integrated transportation systems, and post-trauma care. He emphasised the need for collective efforts from policymakers, corporates, NGOs, and society at large.
Mr. Mihir Shah, Head of Operations at Swiggy, discussed the shared responsibility of road safety and the importance of sustainable solutions and innovative technologies. Swiggy’s ‘Delivering Safely Charter’ incorporates advanced safety technologies, comprehensive training, and robust emergency response systems.
Mr. Prabhu Nagaraj, Operating Officer at Honda Motorcycle & Scooter India, outlined Honda’s road safety initiatives and training programs. He highlighted Honda’s commitment to enhancing road safety through mobility performance, traffic ecosystem improvements, and human ability training.
Mr. Vinod Pandey, Chairman of ASSOCHAM National Council on Manufacturing & Capital Goods and Director at BMW India, concluded the conference by stressing BMW Group’s commitment to safer cars and requesting government support for policy changes to introduce advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and lower taxes for 5-Star NCAP rated vehicles.
A joint knowledge report titled “Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Mobility in India” was released by ASSOCHAM and PWC.
