The Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation is actively considering a significant change to improve safety on its long-distance routes. Officials revealed that UPSRTC may soon deploy two drivers on each long-distance bus. This move aims directly at preventing accidents caused by driver fatigue.
Officials Outline New Safety Strategy
Additional Chief Secretary for Transport, Archana Agarwal, confirmed the corporation is developing this plan. She made the announcement during a two-day workshop focused on road safety awareness and efficiency. The event took place in Lucknow on Monday.
Minister Emphasizes Public Awareness
State Minister for Transport, Dayashankar Singh, inaugurated the workshop. He stressed the critical role of public cooperation in road safety. The minister highlighted existing government rules, like mandatory helmet sales with two-wheeler purchases.
"We have a 'no helmet, no fuel' policy," Singh stated. "However, a lack of public awareness limits its effectiveness." He pointed out that following rules in daily life could cut road accident deaths by half.
Proposals for Expressway Safety Upgrades
The minister proposed several infrastructure improvements for expressways. He urged the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority to consider building:
- Holding areas and dormitories for safe parking and driver accommodation.
- Trauma centers every 100 kilometers to provide immediate medical care after accidents.
Singh noted that transporting injured people to hospitals currently takes too long. He also suggested installing speed breakers at T-point intersections on smaller roads. Better signage at various locations is another need he emphasized.
Budget Requests for Roadside Amenities
Principal Secretary for Public Works Department, Ajay Chauhan, addressed funding aspects. He mentioned that a budget has been formally requested. This funding would support roadside amenities to further boost road safety across the state.
The workshop served as a platform for officials to discuss comprehensive strategies. From driver staffing to public awareness and infrastructure, multiple angles are being explored to make Uttar Pradesh's roads safer for everyone.
