Ranchi's First Transport Park to Open Soon, Aims to Curb Road Accidents
The state of Jharkhand is preparing to launch its very first transport park in Dhurwa, Ranchi. This innovative facility is in the final stages of construction and should open to the public within the next four months. Once operational, it will become the eleventh transport park in the entire country.
A Unique Blend of Education and Recreation
Authorities designed this park as a special mix of an engaging learning space and a leisure destination for city residents. The interactive transport park will help visitors, especially children, understand traffic rules, road signs, and safe commuting practices. It moves beyond traditional classroom teaching by providing hands-on exposure to real-life traffic situations.
Joint Transport Commissioner Pradeep Kumar explained the park's purpose. "We are building this park to address growing concerns over road accidents and traffic violations," he said. "We want to instill a culture of road safety among commuters from an early age."
Features and Learning Experiences
The park will spread across three acres and feature several educational installations. Visitors will see various car models, both in good condition and after accidents. These displays aim to show the serious impacts of rash driving.
Model roads with traffic signals, pedestrian crossings, signages, and markings will help people learn the dos and don'ts of road usage. Children can learn road safety rules and proper walking habits through simulated environments. Adults will receive sensitization about responsible driving, lane discipline, and following traffic regulations.
Background and Statistics
The state transport department and building construction department have been working together on this project. They estimate the cost at approximately Rs 14.95 crore.
This initiative comes at a crucial time. The recently released National Crime Records Bureau report on accidental deaths and suicides revealed concerning data for Jharkhand. The state was among five states and union territories that recorded more deaths than injuries in road accidents during 2023.
Jharkhand reported 5,316 accidents last year. These accidents resulted in 4,130 deaths and 3,586 injuries. Speeding caused 2,584 accidents, leading to 2,215 deaths and 1,794 injuries. Dangerous and careless driving caused 1,978 accidents, resulting in 1,324 deaths and 1,244 injuries. The report also noted accidents due to driver fatigue and poor visibility.
Learning from Other Cities
Department officials plan to visit transport parks in Nagpur and Pune soon. They want to study how these facilities function and what features they offer. This knowledge will help them develop the Ranchi park according to established standards.
The transport park represents a significant step toward improving road safety awareness in Jharkhand. By combining education with practical experience, authorities hope to reduce accidents and save lives across the state.
