India plans to provide dedicated lanes for two-wheelers as part of a major overhaul of Road Safety Revolution.

The planned program, which is envisioned as a centrally sponsored scheme (CSS), attempts to reduce the high incidence of traffic accidents in the nation, especially those that don't involve traffic segregation.

On state highways and urban roadways, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) is creating a plan to provide dedicated lanes for two-wheelers. Scooter and motorcycle riders will be able to travel more safely thanks to these lanes.

The program calls for building pedestrian foot-over bridges (FOBs) or underpasses on important metropolitan arterial roadways in addition to the two-wheeler lanes.

The goal of this coordinated strategy is to improve safety for riders of two wheels as well as pedestrians.

An estimated Rs 14,000 crore would be spent on this project. The central government (Rs 9,948 crore) and the states and union territories (Rs 4,053 crore) would split the cash.

Road Safety Revolution
Image Source: ClearIAS

The suggested plan aims to reduce accidents and fatalities by 70% for every 10,000 vehicles and by 50% for every 10,000 kilometers of road.

Two-wheeler traffic segregation aims to greatly enhance safety results. Two-wheeler-only lanes will facilitate more efficient traffic movement. Having a dedicated place for motorcyclists and scooter users eases traffic and improves route efficiency.

The program aims to improve institutional capacities concerning traffic safety. This covers finance arrangements, implementation plans, and policy frameworks.

According to government figures, two-wheelers are involved in about 44% of road incidents and fatalities in India, while pedestrians are involved in about 17% of crashes and 19% of fatalities. Both of these groups are referred as vulnerable road users (VRUs). The ministry finds inspiration in Malaysia's accomplishments in creating two-wheeler-only highway routes. India hopes to give its residents better safety circumstances by taking a similar tack.

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Image Source: Vivacity Labs

These programs will be evaluated annually and have phased aims. The ability of the states and union territories (UTs) to lower traffic accidents, fatalities, and injuries will determine how they rank. Rewards will be given out in accordance with output.

This system of rankings will encourage responsibility and optimal practices. To raise awareness and establish safe practices from a young age, the proposal also places a strong emphasis on incorporating road safety education into the school curriculum.

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