As per the several studies, 77 percent of the road accidents in India are due to wrong driving, while defective vehicles are responsible for more than 6 percent and pedestrians & cyclist contributing to 4 percent and 3 percent respectively. Road accidents caused by wrong driving habits can be avoided if the drivers are more careful and extra cautious. Low accident transport system is attainable with a well-designed and vigorous safety education programme.

Safety culture has to be inculcated among motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. Needless to add, the road infrastructure has also to be improved considerably in a scientific manner. Only properly maintained or roadworthy motor vehicles should be allowed to ply in public places and there should be strict enforcement of traffic rules and laws.

Enforcement is one of the most efficient and cost-effective means to meet the target of reducing zero fatalities. SIAM-SAFE has always promoted an integrated approach to road safety as the most effective and sustainable way to achieve desired results. In spite of increasing road traffic, the continuous improvements in vehicle passive and active safety features have resulted in an impressive decline in road casualties. Further reductions, however, can only be achieved through an integrated approach. This would require not only safer vehicles but also well designed infrastructure, improved driver skills and behaviour, but also better enforcement of the existing rules.

Today with the technological advancement, the automobiles available in the market are meeting the international standards in safety and emissions. However with usage and time, even the most advanced vehicles are bound to deteriorate and would need regular maintenance to keep them roadworthy. Road worthiness of the commercial vehicles is ascertained by the system of inspection of the vehicle mostly done visually. Certain parameters related to safety and emissions are evaluated mechanically to certify the vehicles as safe and fit to ply on the road. No such system however exists for private vehicles.

There is a need for a robust I & C regulations in all states in India which should also be rigorously enforced. Government of India is working on a model Inspection and Certification centre to be set up in each state.

Many developed countries have achieved drop in road accidents and casualties by adopting multipronged approach to road safety that encompasses a broad range of measures, such as traffic management, road design, and quality infrastructure with safer and well maintained vehicles coupled with strict law enforcement and provision of accident care centres, etc. The challenge for India is on how to adapt these approaches to suit our needs.

For adaptation of international expertise, this year SAFE Annual Convention 2009 theme is “Safety through Enforcement and Inspection & Certification”. The Convention would be held on 17th June 2009 at Hyderabad, where we are targeting national and international experts to share their expertise in the area of Enforcement and I & C system. We also plan to arrange for an display of information on latest technologies in the area of Road Safety and Inspection & Certification system for the participants included among whom would be officials from Transport, Police, Environment, Auto Components and Automobile Manufacturers, NGOs and others working for improvement of our Environment and Road Safety.

Courtesy: Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers

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Posted by Naresh Koshti on 16 June, 2009 3:57:23 PM IST #