Road safety remains a pressing issue in Odisha, as recent statistics reveal an alarming increase in road accident fatalities during the Road Safety Month.
According to State Transport Minister Bibhuti Jena, a staggering 505 people lost their lives in road accidents during this period.
The month-long initiative aimed at promoting road safety awareness recorded a total of 848 accidents, resulting in 472 injuries. These statistics were presented during a session in the Odisha Assembly, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Annual data paints an even grimmer picture, with approximately 5,433 fatalities reported across the state in a year due to road accidents. The rising number of accidents and fatalities underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, improved infrastructure, and enhanced public awareness programs.
The Odisha government has invested Rs1.89 crore in road safety awareness campaigns. Despite these efforts, the increasing accident rates indicate that more stringent measures are necessary to curb this trend. The administration has assured that further actions will be implemented to improve road safety and reduce fatalities in the coming years.
As the state grapples with this significant issue, it is clear that comprehensive and sustained efforts are essential to ensure the safety of its citizens on the roads.
