What Actions Are Being Taken by the SC in Response to Highway Accidents in Rajasthan and Telangana?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court is demanding thorough reports from Rajasthan and Telangana regarding recent highway accidents. This crucial case has raised questions about road safety and the conditions leading to these tragic events, making it a pressing national concern.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court is actively seeking reports on highway safety.
- Rajasthan and Telangana governments are involved in the investigation.
- The accidents raised concerns over road conditions.
- Immediate actions are required to prevent future tragedies.
- An amicus curiae has been appointed to assist in the case.
New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) The Supreme Court took significant action on Monday by requesting comprehensive reports from the state governments of Rajasthan and Telangana, along with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. This request stems from a suo motu case related to two tragic highway accidents that resulted in approximately 40 fatalities last week.
A Bench comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Vijay Bishnoi, who are overseeing the case titled “In Re: Phalodi Accident”, mandated a thorough survey of the highways where these accidents occurred and instructed authorities to submit their findings within two weeks.
The apex court observed the alarming reports highlighting “poor road conditions” on the Bharatmala stretch adjacent to Phalodi in Rajasthan and the Telangana–Bijapur highway. The court indicated that the causes of the accidents are “clearly reflected” in media reports and call for immediate intervention.
“Despite tolls being charged, the road conditions remain unsatisfactory,” noted the Bench led by Justice Maheshwari. They pointed out that numerous dhabas have emerged “in areas not designated for such facilities.”
The Bench further elaborated, “The dhabas are positioned right next to the road, which is not authorized for this purpose. Trucks frequently stop to visit these dhabas, leading to collisions with other vehicles traveling at high speeds. We need to comprehend how to manage this situation effectively,” it added.
The Supreme Court also appointed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) to provide assistance in this matter. This writ petition was registered suo motu following two significant accidents: the November 2 crash in Phalodi where a tempo traveller carrying women and children returning from a pilgrimage in Jodhpur collided with a stationary truck, resulting in at least 18 deaths; and the November 3 accident on the Telangana–Bijapur highway that led to 20 fatalities.
The Bench instructed the NHAI and the Union Ministry of Road Transport to detail the number of dhabas located along the road in areas “not authorized for such facilities,” assess the condition of the road surface, and ensure compliance with maintenance standards by private contractors.
Additionally, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs was ordered to be included, along with the Chief Secretaries from all states traversed by the two highways.
Point of View
It is our responsibility to highlight the dire need for improved road safety measures across India. The Supreme Court's involvement underscores the urgency of addressing the underlying issues that have led to these tragic accidents. We must advocate for accountability and enhanced infrastructure to ensure the safety of all travelers.
NationPress
10/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recent case regarding highway accidents about?
The Supreme Court is reviewing two deadly highway accidents in Rajasthan and Telangana that resulted in nearly 40 fatalities, seeking detailed reports from relevant state and national authorities.
What actions has the Supreme Court taken?
The court has directed state governments and the National Highways Authority to conduct thorough surveys of the highways involved and submit their findings within two weeks.
What are the main concerns highlighted by the Supreme Court?
The court expressed concerns over poor road conditions, the positioning of dhabas, and the need for immediate regulatory measures to enhance road safety.
What specific incidents prompted the Supreme Court's involvement?
The involvement was triggered by two major accidents: one on November 2 in Phalodi and another on November 3 on the Telangana–Bijapur highway.
Who has been appointed to assist the court in this matter?
An amicus curiae has been appointed to assist the Supreme Court in navigating the complexities of the case.
