NH-22 in Gaya: A Perilous Highway Where Traffic Rules Are Routinely Ignored
The NH-22 highway, a critical link between GT Road and the state capital Patna in Bihar, has transformed into a highly accident-prone zone due to rampant violations of traffic rules and the Motor Vehicles Act. This vital artery is witnessing a surge in dangerous behaviors such as wrong-side driving, overloading of vehicles, exceeding speed limits, and reckless "fun driving," all contributing to a distressing frequency of road mishaps.
Alarming Statistics and Tragic Incidents Highlight the Crisis
According to data compiled by Satish Das, a former MLA from the Makhdumpur constituency in Jehanabad district, the situation is dire. In just the past year, a staggering 88 fatal accidents have occurred between Belaganj and Jehanabad alone. "The figures are mind-boggling," remarked the ex-MLA, underscoring the severity of the issue. One of the most severe tragedies took place in September 2025, when five businessmen lost their lives after their car collided with a parked truck in the Parsa Bazar police station area of Patna district.
Persistent Violations Despite Infrastructure and Bans
Despite the highway being equipped with separate lanes and dividers to enhance safety, head-on collisions remain a common occurrence. The former MLA pointed out that underage and unlicensed drivers are often seen operating tractor trolleys overloaded with sand and other construction materials, creating chaos on this crucial route. Additionally, although the state government imposed a complete ban on e-rickshaws plying on highways a couple of months ago, these vehicles continue to operate illegally on NH-22, further exacerbating the risks.
Authorities Respond with Measures and Calls for Improvement
In response to the high incidence of accidents, the former MLA has demanded the establishment of a trauma centre at a strategic point along NH-22 to provide immediate medical assistance. Gaya Traffic DSP Sudhir Kumar acknowledged the shortcomings in traffic movement on the highway, stating that these issues cannot be resolved overnight. "It is a continuing process," he said, emphasizing that both preventive and punitive measures are being implemented to foster traffic sense and respect for rules among road users.
To enforce compliance, three mobile units have been deployed to monitor speed limits and penalize violators. Awareness campaigns are also periodically launched to educate the public. When contacted, DTO Rajesh Kumar mentioned that he requires specific inputs on rule violations, including the illegal operation of e-rickshaws, and assured that he would look into the matter. However, critics argue that more stringent and immediate actions are necessary to curb the escalating accident rates on this hazardous highway.
