Odisha's Road Safety Initiative Slashes Accident Fatalities by Over a Third
Data released on Sunday revealed a significant achievement for road safety in Odisha. The state's 'zero fatality fortnight' campaign, launched in November 2025, resulted in a remarkable 33.5% reduction in road accident deaths compared to the same period in the previous year. This targeted initiative, conducted from November 16 to 30, 2025, was specifically designed to curb the alarming rise in road mishaps and bolster comprehensive safety measures across the region.
Campaign Statistics Show Dramatic Improvement
During the focused two-week campaign, authorities reported 462 accidents leading to 212 fatalities. This represents a sharp and encouraging decline from the 520 accidents and 319 deaths recorded during the corresponding fortnight in 2024. The substantial drop underscores the immediate impact of coordinated, intensive efforts.
Multi-Pronged Strategy Credited for Success
State Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur attributed the campaign's success to a robust, multi-faceted approach. "Compliance with road safety rules improved and violations declined due to the collective efforts of various stakeholders including police, transport, health, and road-owning agencies," Thakur stated. The strategy hinged on three core pillars:
- Strict Enforcement: Police and Regional Transport Office (RTO) presence was dramatically intensified on highways and major arterial roads. Authorities implemented rigorous monitoring for speeding, drink-driving, and mobile phone use while driving.
- Widespread Awareness: Extensive educational programs reached schools, colleges, and community centers. Social media platforms were leveraged to disseminate critical safety messages and practical driving tips. Workshops and interactive sessions aimed to foster a culture of responsibility among young drivers and pedestrians.
- Enhanced Emergency Healthcare: A key focus was strengthening post-accident response. The transport department collaborated closely with hospitals and emergency services to ensure rapid aid for victims. Quick-response teams were deployed, and ambulances were outfitted with advanced life-saving equipment.
Government Coordination and Shared Responsibility
Outgoing Transport Secretary Usha Padhee issued a detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to district collectors, Superintendents of Police (SPs), and other key stakeholders. This document outlined clear roles and responsibilities to ensure a unified, coordinated effort across all agencies involved.
Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena emphasized the ongoing commitment and shared duty. "The government has been making serious efforts to improve road safety across the state. Each one of us must drive carefully and responsibly to protect our own lives and those of fellow road users," Jena affirmed.
Commissioner Thakur reinforced the campaign's broader vision: "Our goal is to create a safer environment for all road users. By working together, we can reduce accidents and save lives. The success of the zero fatality fortnight campaign has been closely monitored." The transport department continues to stress that road safety is a collective responsibility, requiring sustained effort from both authorities and the public.
