Pune-Mumbai Expressway : 42% Reduction in Fatal Accidents

PUNE: The Pune-Mumbai Expressway has seen a substantial decrease in the frequency of accidents, reflecting a positive trend for road safety. An analysis of data spanning six months revealed a commendable 20 percent drop in overall accidents and a remarkable 42 percent reduction in fatal accidents.

The transport department’s strategic and continuous interventions along the expressway route played a pivotal role in achieving these encouraging figures. Over the course of a continuous six-month period, a proactive approach resulted in the scrutiny of more than 50,000 vehicles, ultimately contributing to the decrease in accident numbers.

In a determined bid to tackle accidents on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, the transport department deployed a series of measures. Collaborative efforts involving squads from Pune, Raigad, Pimpri Chinchwad, and Panvel RTO diligently carried out round-the-clock operations for six consecutive months, from December 22 to May 23. The concerted actions bore fruit, as evidenced by a pronounced decrease in accidents during this timeframe.

Particular emphasis was placed on addressing speeding vehicles, resulting in measures taken against over 10,000 vehicles exceeding stipulated speed limits. The transport department’s rigorous enforcement encompassed multiple infractions, including overspeeding, lane violations, seat belt negligence, improper parking, mobile phone usage while driving, driving without valid licenses, vehicles without necessary permits, and the unauthorized transport of goods within passenger traffic.

These sustained efforts bore remarkable results, substantiated by a considerable reduction in accidents on the expressway over the span of six months. The authorities remain committed to advancing these safety endeavors, striving for a further decrease in accident occurrences.

Statistics reveal the evident progress achieved over a specific duration:

Duration: Total Accidents and Fatal Accident Deaths

January to July 2022: 198 total accidents, 86 fatal accidents, 109 deaths
January to July 2023: 160 total accidents, 68 fatal accidents, 88 deaths
Percentage Decline: 19% in Total Accidents, 21% in Fatal Accidents, 19% in Deaths

Additionally, the marked achievements extended to July, demonstrating a noteworthy 42% reduction:

Total Accidents and Fatal Accident Deaths

July 2022: 25 total accidents, 12 fatal accidents, 15 deaths
July 2023: 25 total accidents, 7 fatal accidents, 7 deaths

Madhupriya Dhanwate