Date : 21/11/2023

Relevance: GS Paper 3 – Environment and Ecology – Sustainable Practices

Keywords: WHO, SDGs, Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, Legal Burden

Context-

India's expansive road network, emblematic of progress and connectivity, also harbors a silent and deadly pandemic - road accidents. Despite being a symbol of modernization and economic growth, the country witnesses a staggering number of road-related fatalities. According to the United Nations World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 300,000 lives are lost annually on Indian roads, underscoring the urgent need for a robust road safety management framework.

The Grim Reality:

India's roads, paradoxically offering vast opportunities for commuting and trade, also contribute significantly to a public health crisis. The annual toll of 300,000 lives lost is not just a statistical figure; it represents the profound human suffering inflicted by road accidents. Moreover, the economic toll of road crashes, estimated to be between 5% and 7% of the national GDP, demands a strategic and holistic response.

Global Perspective on Road Safety:

While road safety is a global concern with 1.3 million annual fatalities worldwide, India stands out with almost one in every four road deaths occurring within its borders. This disproportionate share of road fatalities emphasizes the urgency of targeted interventions. The World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims serves as a poignant reminder of the need for immediate and evidence-based actions to curb the escalating human tragedies on Indian roads.

Challenges and Imperatives:

The challenges are multifaceted, ranging from lax enforcement of safety measures to inadequate road infrastructure. The Government's recent report revealing 2022 as the most fatal year for traffic crashes underscores the gravity of the situation. Urgent and concerted efforts are required at various levels - national, state, and local - coupled with a paradigm shift in the collective mindset regarding road safety.

Priority Areas for Intervention:

• Seatbelt and Helmet Enforcement:
  Prioritizing the enforcement of seatbelt use for both drivers and passengers, along with stringent measures for helmet use among motorcyclists and pillion riders, is imperative. Statistics indicate significant reductions in the risk of fatalities with the correct use of seatbelts and helmets.


• Vulnerable Road Users:
  Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders, account for a significant majority of road deaths. Tailored measures and public awareness campaigns should address their unique safety challenges.


• Speeding and Drink-Driving:
  Strict measures to reduce speeding and a zero-tolerance policy for drink-driving are crucial. A government report attributing 70% of road crash deaths to speeding emphasizes the need for targeted interventions.


• Infrastructure Enhancement:
  While recent government programs have improved road conditions, further enhancements are necessary to ensure the safety of all road users.

Global Frameworks and Indian Initiatives:

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3.6, aim to halve global deaths and injuries from road crashes. India has taken steps in the right direction with the implementation of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, and enhanced data collection to understand the dynamics of road crashes better. Modern technologies, such as intelligent traffic management systems, are being adopted in major cities to regulate traffic effectively.

Private Sector and Whole-of-Society Approach:

Private sector companies are actively seeking solutions, recognizing the need for a comprehensive, whole-of-society effort to improve road safety. Collaboration between the government, private sector, and civil society is crucial to address the complex challenge of road safety comprehensively.

Regional Disparities and International Best Practices:

Regional disparities in access to emergency care services and after-care impact the chances of surviving a road crash. Learning from international best practices and successes is essential, but adaptation to India's specific needs and circumstances is equally critical.

Impact of Road Accidents in India

Physical Consequences:

Road accidents in India often lead to severe physical injuries and disabilities, encompassing fractures, burns, amputations, spinal cord injuries, and brain injuries. These adversities significantly impede the victims' quality of life, creating enduring challenges for both the affected individuals and their families. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that road traffic injuries rank as the primary cause of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost among 15-29 year olds in the country.

Psychological Toll:

Beyond physical harm, road accidents contribute to psychological trauma and stress, inducing conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and grief. These mental health repercussions extend to both victims and their families, affecting emotional stability and well-being.

Fatalities and Grief:

The most tragic outcome of road accidents is the loss of life, resulting in profound grief and irreversible consequences for the affected families. Dealing with the death of loved ones becomes a challenging and life-altering experience.

Social Inequity and Exclusion:

Road accidents further amplify social inequality, disproportionately impacting economically disadvantaged and vulnerable groups such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and public transport users. These groups often lack access to safe and affordable transportation, healthcare, and social protection, exacerbating existing disparities.

Economic Ramifications:

The economic fallout of road accidents is substantial, leading to a loss of productivity and income. The accidents hamper the ability and availability of the workforce, diminishing earning potential and savings for victims and their families. The economic impact is significant, with road crashes estimated to cost between 5% and 7% of India's national GDP.

Healthcare and Legal Burden:

Road accidents impose an additional burden on healthcare and legal systems. The aftermath requires medical treatment, rehabilitation, compensation, and litigation, contributing to substantial costs. This burden is shared by both the public and private sectors, further stressing victims and their families. According to a study commissioned by the road transport and highways ministry, the socio-economic cost of a road accident in India in 2018 was Rs 91 lakh for death and Rs 3.6 lakh for grievous injuries.

Conclusion:

Addressing India's silent pandemic of road injuries requires a comprehensive and safe-system approach. The Second Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021-2030, as envisioned by the UN, provides a framework for sustained efforts. The full implementation of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019, is imperative. Beyond saving lives, tackling road safety will strengthen the economy and enhance the quality of life for all citizens. The urgent need for immediate action cannot be overstated; the time to curb this silent pandemic is now.

Source- ORF