How is Haryana DGP Addressing Road Safety with Black Spot Rectification?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Haryana DGP O.P. Singh emphasizes urgent rectification of black spots.
- A total of 474 black spots have been identified across the state.
- Efforts to address road safety include engineering solutions and inter-departmental cooperation.
- The state offers free medical treatment for road accident victims.
- Timely improvements are crucial for reducing road fatalities.
Chandigarh, Nov 12 (NationPress) In a pivotal move to enhance road safety, Haryana’s Director General of Police (DGP) O. P. Singh has reached out to both the Central and state administrations, advocating for the swift rectification of known black spots (areas prone to accidents) throughout the state.
The DGP directed his correspondence to V. Umashankar, Secretary at the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), and Anurag Aggarwal, Additional Chief Secretary of the Public Works Department in the state.
In his letter, DGP Singh highlighted that a collaborative study between Haryana Police and the Transport Department pinpointed numerous black spots where five or more road accidents have occurred in a brief period.
From 2019-20 to 2023-24, a total of 474 black spots were identified, with 223 sites already addressed, leaving 251 locations awaiting necessary improvements.
He emphasized that delays in engineering solutions, including road repairs, installation of signage, construction of service roads, traffic calming measures, and enhanced lighting, contribute to frequent accidents and the tragic loss of lives.
The DGP has urged the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the PWD (Buildings and Roads) to instruct project implementation units and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to ensure the timely and effective rectification of all outstanding black spots.
He asserted that prompt engineering enhancements at these sites will not only improve road safety but also markedly reduce the state’s road fatality rates.
The state has initiated a program providing cashless and free medical treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh for road accident victims, ensuring immediate medical support for those injured in accidents.
"Haryana Police’s responsibilities extend beyond maintaining law and order; we are equally dedicated to safeguarding the lives of our citizens. Reducing road accidents necessitates a collaborative effort from the police, administration, and engineering sectors. Every life is invaluable, and our mission is to ensure the safety of every road," an official statement from DGP Singh emphasized on Wednesday.
He remarked that the road safety initiative represents a significant advancement towards "preventive policing," aiming for lasting solutions through data analysis, inter-departmental cooperation, and technological advancements.