Delhi Government to Implement Rah-Veer Scheme for Road Accident Assistance
In a significant move to enhance road safety and public welfare, the Delhi government announced on Monday that it will adopt the Centre's Rah-Veer scheme. This initiative is designed to motivate citizens to provide immediate assistance to seriously injured road accident victims, as stated by Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
Financial Incentives and Recognition
Under the Rah-Veer scheme, any individual who offers prompt help to a seriously injured road accident victim and ensures their transport to a hospital or trauma centre within the critical golden hour will be rewarded with Rs 25,000. Additionally, they will receive a certificate of appreciation to acknowledge their compassionate act.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta emphasized, "People often hesitate to assist due to fears of legal entanglements or police procedures. However, this scheme aims to eliminate such apprehensions and encourage citizens to step forward without hesitation."
Objectives and Societal Impact
The scheme has dual objectives: to save the lives of seriously injured road accident victims and to cultivate a culture of compassion within society. The Delhi government believes that increased public participation can significantly reduce mortality rates resulting from road accidents.
According to the chief minister, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued detailed guidelines to all states and Union territories for effective implementation. Following these directives, the Delhi government has decided to adopt the Rah-Veer scheme.
Legal Framework and Implementation Structure
The initiative is framed in accordance with the Good Samaritan Rules, which were notified under Section 134A of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. To ensure smooth execution, a District Level Evaluation Committee will be established. This committee will comprise:
- The District Magistrate
- A senior police officer
- The Chief Medical Officer
- The Regional Transport Officer
Reward Distribution and Digital Management
The reward amount of Rs 25,000 will be transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account through an online process. A separate bank account will be maintained specifically for this purpose, and the entire procedure will be recorded on a digital platform for transparency and efficiency.
Chief Minister Gupta added, "The Ministry will also provide an initial grant to the states to support the implementation of this scheme."
Annual Recognition for Outstanding Contributors
In a further incentive, ten of the most outstanding Rah-Veers selected annually will receive a special national award of Rs 1 lakh each. This additional recognition aims to highlight exemplary acts of bravery and compassion, setting a benchmark for societal behavior.
The Delhi government's adoption of the Rah-Veer scheme marks a proactive step towards leveraging community involvement to address road safety challenges, ultimately fostering a more responsive and caring urban environment.
