New Delhi: Harsh Malhotra said that a road safety national movement requires responsible behaviour from all road users and cannot rely only on isolated awareness campaigns.
He made the remarks while flagging off the 3rd edition of the Uttarakhand Adventure Ride organised by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The event aimed to combine adventure tourism with road safety awareness.
Road safety national movement needs collective responsibility
The Minister stressed that improved infrastructure alone cannot ensure safer roads. Although India has expanded and modernised its road network under Narendra Modi and Nitin Gadkari, he said citizen behaviour remains crucial.
He pointed out that road accidents continue to be a major concern, with nearly 1.8 lakh fatalities reported annually. Moreover, about 45% of these deaths involve two-wheelers, highlighting the need for safer riding practices.
Government pushes 4E strategy for safer roads
He outlined the government’s 4E strategy—Engineering, Enforcement, Education and Emergency Care—as the foundation of road safety efforts. This approach focuses on better road design, stricter enforcement and improved emergency response.
In addition, initiatives such as the PM Rahat Scheme and Rah-Veer Scheme encourage timely assistance to accident victims. These programmes aim to strengthen post-accident care and reduce fatalities.
Technology and awareness to drive change
The Minister highlighted the growing role of technology in improving safety outcomes. AI-based traffic monitoring, Intelligent Transport Systems and automated enforcement tools are helping authorities manage road safety more effectively.
However, he emphasised that technology alone cannot solve the problem. Responsible driving habits, he said, remain essential for lasting change.
Youth participation and public awareness key
He urged young people to act as ambassadors of safe driving. According to him, early awareness can help build long-term discipline on roads.
He also advised citizens to follow traffic rules strictly and avoid risky behaviour such as overspeeding, using mobile phones while driving and riding without helmets.
Concluding his remarks, he called for a collective pledge to promote safer roads. The road safety national movement, he said, depends on sustained efforts by government, institutions and citizens alike.
