In response to a tragic bus-trailer crash on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway in Dausa that resulted in eight deaths, the Rajasthan government has mandated a thorough road safety audit of the expressway within 15 days. Emphasizing passenger safety as a top priority, State Chief Secretary V. Srinivas directed all departments to implement timely measures to reduce road accidents and fatalities.
During a high-level road safety review meeting conducted via video conference, the Chief Secretary instructed the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to conduct a comprehensive safety audit of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway corridor within the stipulated timeframe. Additionally, he urged NHAI to ensure the proper functioning of surveillance cameras on national highways and enhance road signage and safety infrastructure where deficiencies are identified.
NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav responded to the directive, assuring that the safety audit would be completed within the specified period. He pledged prompt implementation of necessary improvements, including enhanced signage. Yadav commended the proactive stance of the Rajasthan government in enhancing road safety measures.
The review meeting also addressed concerns regarding buses from Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland operating in Rajasthan without meeting prescribed safety standards. Chief Secretary Srinivas instructed the dispatch of semi-official letters to the Chief Secretaries of the respective states to take appropriate action. He stressed the importance of thorough safety inspections before allowing any vehicle to operate, highlighting the non-negotiable nature of passenger safety.
To enhance accident response capabilities, the Chief Secretary mandated that every toll plaza should have access to essential facilities like ambulances, first-aid services, recovery equipment, and fire brigade support. He also called for improved food facilities at highway amenity centers to support safer long-distance travel. Divisional Commissioners were directed to conduct meetings with District Collectors to ensure coordinated implementation of safety measures through district road safety committees.
