Pune-Mumbai, 11th January 2024: A successful initiative aimed at curbing accidents on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway has yielded encouraging results, showcasing a notable reduction in reported accidents between January and December 2023 compared to the previous year. Spearheaded by the Highway Police and the Regional Transport Office (RTO), the campaign emphasized extensive awareness programs and stringent enforcement of traffic regulations.

State transport department data reveals that there were 329 accidents on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway from January to December 2022, leading to 186 casualties. In contrast, the corresponding period in 2023 witnessed a decrease to 271 accidents, with 103 being fatal and 126 lives lost. This translates to a significant 17.62% reduction in overall accidents, a noteworthy 32.23% drop in fatal accidents, and a corresponding 32.25% decrease in fatalities.

The success of this endeavor is attributed to proactive measures taken by the Highway Police and RTO. Frequent awareness programs and strict actions against violators played a pivotal role. As part of the campaign, the RTO imparted traffic rules lessons to 65,000 motorists who had violated rules in the past year. Instead of imposing fines, these individuals were educated in specially designated rooms equipped with water facilities to create a conducive learning environment.

Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar elucidated, To prevent accidents on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, the RTO department is running a public awareness campaign. Punitive action has also been taken against those who violate traffic rules. So, in the last year, 65,000 motorists who violated traffic rules were given information about traffic rules instead of penal action.

The RTO and highway police concentrated on common causes of accidents, addressing issues such as speeding, drowsy driving, and erratic lane changes. Road safety campaigns significantly contributed to fostering public awareness about the importance of adhering to traffic rules, resulting in a notable decrease in accidents on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.