Odisha’s State Transport Authority presented the state’s technology-enabled and community-oriented road safety measures at the World Health Organization’s National Dialogue on Road Safety Legislation, held at World Health House in New Delhi on October 15-16.
Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur participated in the dialogue, themed “Learning, practice and the way forward” under the banner “Towards Safer Mobility.” He outlined Odisha’s multi-pronged approach that combines stronger legal enforcement, infrastructure solutions, digital tools, and community participation.
Key measures highlighted included intensified enforcement under Section 167 (and related provisions of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules governing electronic detection and e-challans). The state has rolled out systems for automated monitoring of violations such as missing insurance, pollution certificates, speeding, and other offences, with photographic/video evidence supporting e-challans. Odisha has also prioritised annual certification of electronic enforcement devices under Rule 167A to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Infrastructure interventions featured prominently. The state is establishing truck terminals to reduce unauthorised parking on highways, a common contributor to accidents and congestion. Goshala facilities are being set up to manage stray cattle, addressing a frequent cause of crashes on rural and highway stretches.
Community-level programmes received special mention. The Rakshak scheme trains local residents and workers near accident-prone areas as first responders, equipping them to provide immediate assistance during the critical golden hour. The newer Junior Rakshak phase partners with the National Cadet Corps to train thousands of cadets in first-aid and emergency response skills, expanding the network of trained volunteers.
On the technology front, Thakur detailed the AMA RASTA WhatsApp chatbot. Citizens can report accidents by messaging a dedicated number; the system automatically alerts the nearest police, ambulance services, Regional Transport Office, and trained responders, accelerating rescue efforts. The AMA SuVahak initiative, focused on women’s empowerment, trains and supports women as professional drivers and taxi entrepreneurs. It includes skill development through Institutes of Driving Training and Research, financial assistance such as interest support and down-payment help, and aims to increase women’s participation in the transport sector while contributing to safer mobility.
The presentation positioned Odisha’s model as one that integrates enforcement, engineering solutions, emergency response, and inclusive livelihood programmes. Officials noted that several of these approaches have drawn national attention, with community-based responder models influencing broader policy discussions.
The two-day dialogue brought together stakeholders to exchange legislative and practical experiences on reducing road fatalities and injuries. Photographs from the event showed Thakur addressing participants from the official WHO podium and joining other delegates on stage.
Odisha continues to prioritise road safety through digital enforcement, trained community responders, and targeted programmes for drivers and women, aligning state efforts with national goals for safer roads.
