NWKRTC Safety Team Flags 168 High-Risk Road Locations in Karnataka
The Central Safety and Vigilance team of the North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), in a coordinated effort with local police, has conducted a comprehensive survey identifying 168 accident-prone 'black spots' across six revenue districts under its operational jurisdiction. This initiative aims to proactively address road safety concerns and reduce traffic incidents.
Belagavi and Chikodi Divisions Top the List with 48 Black Spots
According to the detailed survey findings, the highest concentration of these hazardous locations was found in the Belagavi and Chikodi divisions within Belagavi district, totaling 48 black spots. A breakdown reveals that 34 of these are situated in the Chikkodi division, while 14 are located in the Belagavi division itself.
Officials have attributed the disproportionately high number in Chikodi to an extensive network of narrow roads, which significantly increases the risk of accidents. Kempanna Gudennavar, the Belagavi divisional controller for NWKRTC, provided further insight, noting that a separate divisional survey had identified 25 black spots within the Belagavi division limits, whereas the central vigilance survey highlighted 14. "We are actively working towards implementing corrective measures at these identified locations," Gudennavar assured.
Survey Covers Multiple Districts and National Highways
The corporation's jurisdiction spans six key districts: Belagavi, Karwar, Gadag, Bagalkot, Dharwad, and Haveri. The survey report specifically identified approximately 50 black spots on National Highways within these areas, underscoring the widespread nature of the safety issues.
Ganesh Rathod, the chief safety and vigilance officer at NWKRTC, explained the methodology behind the identification process. "Based on historical accident data, direct feedback from our drivers, and reports from line-checking staff, we have pinpointed locations that urgently require additional safety interventions," Rathod stated. He emphasized that addressing these deficiencies would benefit not only NWKRTC buses but all road users, including private vehicles and pedestrians.
Infrastructure Deficiencies Highlighted as Major Contributing Factors
Rathod further elaborated on the challenges faced by drivers, noting that even those with exemplary safety records often struggle due to poor road design, inadequate signage, and other infrastructural shortcomings. "These issues are systemic and need immediate attention to prevent accidents," he added.
The survey has proposed several remedial measures to mitigate risks at these black spots, including:
- Improved and clearer road signages
- Installation of reflective sticks for better visibility
- Enhanced lane segregation to manage traffic flow
- Implementation of solar lighting, particularly on vulnerable stretches
- Rectification of engineering defects in road design
Government Engagement and Future Steps
Rathod confirmed that PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi has taken a keen interest in addressing these critical road safety issues. One review meeting has already been conducted, with another scheduled for February 25 in Hubballi to discuss progress and further actions.
"Unless these road deficiencies are rectified, merely targeting drivers will not solve the underlying problem," Rathod asserted. He expressed optimism that even a 25% reduction in accidents would mark significant progress, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts between transport authorities, government bodies, and infrastructure agencies to create safer roads for everyone in the region.
