Prayagraj Authorities Launch Major Initiative to Curb Rising Road Accident Fatalities
Despite persistent efforts, road accident deaths in Prayagraj have continued to climb, compelling local authorities to roll out a targeted safety strategy focused on the city's most perilous intersections. This alarming trend has spurred a collaborative response aimed at implementing concrete, data-driven interventions.
Comprehensive Survey Identifies 72 Critical Accident-Prone Junctions
A meticulous survey, conducted by the Delhi-based Save Life Foundation in partnership with the provincial Public Works Department (PWD) division, has pinpointed 72 critical junctions across Prayagraj that are highly susceptible to accidents. The initial phase of this study concentrated on understanding the root causes of frequent crashes in accident-prone zones spanning the northern city areas, as well as the Meja, Karchhana, and Koraon assembly constituencies.
The foundation formally presented its detailed findings to PK Rai, the secretary of the district road safety committee and the chief engineer of the PWD. To ensure accuracy, a follow-up survey was conducted last month to reconfirm the classification of these 72 locations as critical junctions, solidifying the basis for the proposed safety measures.
Detailed Project Report and Budget Proposal Submitted for Approval
Based on the survey's insights, a comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) was meticulously prepared for these high-risk locations. This report has been submitted to the Lucknow headquarters, where it is currently awaiting budget approval. The PWD has proposed an allocation of Rs 1.36 crore to fund the implementation of these crucial safety interventions, a sum now under active consideration by higher authorities.
Night-Time Safety Interventions to Enhance Road Security
The proposed safety plan includes a suite of specialized measures designed to be particularly effective during night-time hours, when visibility and risk factors are often heightened. Key interventions outlined in the project are:
- Rumble strips to alert drivers and reduce speed.
- Table-top crossings to ensure safer pedestrian passage.
- Speed breakers to enforce lower vehicle speeds in critical zones.
- Thermoplastic markings for enhanced road visibility and lane discipline.
- Solar-powered "I-Cat" reflectors to improve nighttime illumination and driver awareness.
Key Areas Targeted for Immediate Safety Upgrades
The project will focus on several high-traffic and historically dangerous areas across Prayagraj. Prominent locations set to receive these safety enhancements include:
- Darbhanga Colony
- State Highways 95, 9, and 102
- Baluaghat Road
- Chibbiya Road
- Sarojini Naidu Road
- Kamla Nehru Road
Officials express strong optimism that these targeted measures will lead to a significant reduction in accidents, thereby improving overall road safety in the city's most vulnerable sectors. The initiative represents a proactive step towards mitigating the ongoing public safety challenge posed by road fatalities in Prayagraj.
