The state of Rajasthan has seen a disturbing increase in road accidents lately, which have reached alarming levels despite efforts in preventive measures. This article discusses the various causes for this increase, especially focusing on one of the worst accident-prone highways of the state- the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway.
Road Accidents – Human Errors and Traffic Violations
As per the statistics collected, the major cause of accidents is still human errors in Rajasthan. Not only that, most of the people drive at a high speed, often abusing alcohol or narcotics while driving, and they usually violate traffic regulations. The artery between these two important cities, the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, is fast becoming a den for such violations.
For instance, just last month, there was an accident of an LPG tanker, which caused a huge uproar as far as the safety issues were concerned. The tanker, which was running at a speed definitely against the permissible limit, lost control and had a major chain reaction falling between more than 40 vehicles. This incident not only killed many people but also raised a question regarding driver behavior. Speed limits are generally violated by such heavy cargo without the driver realizing the extent of menace it is causing in the eyes of safety measures. Thus, speeding along with heavy cargo increases the risks of causing severe accidents.
Preventive Measures: To take care of human errors, Rajasthan police have intensified surprise breath analyzer tests taking place on highways like the Jaipur-Ajmer. Speed limit detection and enforcement are to be made tougher with the installation of speed cameras at frequent intervals. Awareness campaigns are being launched among drivers, especially of heavy vehicles like LPG tankers, forewarning them about the perils of speeding and the importance of driving within their capabilities and the safety limits of the vehicle.
Infrastructure Deficiencies
The incessant stratification of traffic has gone far beyond the abilities of any incoming infrastructure in the state, those most particularly on routes like Jaipur-Ajmer Highway. The narrow road stretches, bad conditions, and absence of correct information/signage or lighting result more in accidents.
The reason for the accident, the LPG tanker, was worsened due to insufficient shoulder space on the highway, which rendered it almost impossible for recovery from loss of control. More often than not, the absence of proper signage for sharp curves or construction zones creates mayhem.
Prevention Strategy: The government has stipulated major infrastructural modifications such as road widening, road surface improvement, and improved visibility by means of lighting and signage. There is a focus on the identification and treatment of black spots on highways where accidents cluster. It is also becoming necessary to subject designs to advanced road safety audits that will pre-emptively address key deficiencies.
Vehicle Safety Standards
There is a huge number of older vehicles in the vehicle fleet of Rajasthan which do not conform to modern safety standards.
Most commercial vehicles, including LPG tankers, lack safety features such as airbags and ABS (anti-lock braking systems) and pose almost an insurmountable risk. When the accident involving the LPG tanker occurred on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, these missing safety features added to the severity of the accident. Calls for stringent checks on vehicles are becoming more intense to ensure compliance with safety norms, especially for vehicles carrying hazardous payloads.
Associated Prevention Strategy: The state is advocating for policy formulation which will require all commercial vehicles to be fitted with the minimum safety features. Another proposed plan is to phase out older vehicles from service in their stead with newly manufactured ones having better safety characteristics. Maintenance checks are now being stringently applied and enforced for vehicles, mainly heavy goods vehicles, to avert road accidents caused by mechanical failure.
Emergency Response and Post-Accident Care
Emergencies on the highways in Rajasthan take a long time before responding. The time passes by the critical hour that when something is done medically, it can increase survival chances. The LPG tanker accident saw rescues delaying because they were not quickly done to be available in the case.
Prevention Strategy: Investing in the state will include a more extensive emergency response system in the state to eliminate the possibility of road accidents becoming fatal. The improvement in this system includes establishing additional trauma care centers along major highways, such as the Jaipur-Ajmer road, training local volunteers to start a first-response action, and advanced life support ambulances. In addition, public-private partnerships are explored to ensure a network of hospitals ready to promptly handle victims of accidents.
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility
The increase in road accidents in Rajasthan, particularly on the Jaipur-Ajmer Highway, cannot be pinpointed to just one factor but rather an amalgamation of human, infrastructural, and systemic concerns. The government is stepping up its efforts, but it is up to each driver, vehicle owner, and the community as a whole to embrace safer road practices.
That sad LPG tanker accident serves as a potent reminder of what is hanging in the balance. We are not just stopping accidents; we are making sure that if there is an accident, response is there to save lives. Everyone involved in the road safety measures in Rajasthan-from the policy makers to the driver-becomes a part of the journey toward safety. Collective responsibility and action hold the key to reducing these avoidable tragedies.
Remember:
- Drive at speeds prescribed on road signs.
- Never drive while being intoxicated.
- Always obey the traffic signals.
- Ensure that your vehicle is compliant with safety standards.
- If an accident occurs, seconds can mean the difference between life and death. Be aware of your emergency numbers and the nearest medical facility.
Together, we can create a safer road scenario in Rajasthan with fewer accidents and much better emotion after an accident. Road accidents will be stopped from taking lives altogether.
