Despite a significant push for road safety enforcement, Chamarajanagar district has witnessed a concerning increase in road accidents and fatalities over the past two years. The data reveals a grim picture, prompting authorities to intensify drives and deploy advanced technology like AI-powered cameras to curb violations.
Alarming Rise in Accidents and Fatalities
The statistics from the district are sobering. In 2024, a total of 256 people lost their lives in road accidents, with another 1,130 individuals injured across 739 incidents. The following year, 2025, did not show the desired improvement. While fatalities saw a slight numerical decrease to 242, the number of accidents and injuries surged. The year recorded 824 accidents causing injuries to 1,274 people.
Intensified Drives and Technological Intervention
In response to these persistent figures, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) and police have ramped up their efforts. The focus is on strict enforcement against major violations, including speeding, drink driving, and the non-use of helmets and seat belts, with harsher penalties being imposed.
A key technological upgrade involves the installation of cameras equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) at major traffic junctions and circles. These systems are designed to automatically spot and record traffic violations. Alongside this, special inspections are being conducted on major roads and key junctions to ease congestion and improve compliance.
Identifying Black Spots and Spreading Awareness
A crucial step has been the identification of high-risk zones. Chamarajanagar SP N Mutturaj informed that police, along with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the RTA, conducted a joint inspection. This effort led to the identification of 22 black spots on the national highways passing through the district, including the Bengaluru-Dindigul highway.
On the awareness front, Chamarajanagar Regional Transport Officer Gayathri outlined a multi-pronged approach. The transport department, police, and district administration are conducting outreach programs at bus stands, railway stations, schools, and colleges. A specific appeal has been made to parents not to allow their minor children to drive two-wheelers. Furthermore, directions have been issued to the police to take strict action to curb dangerous bike stunts.
Despite these comprehensive measures, which also include hefty fines, the challenge remains significant. The district continues to grapple with high numbers of accidents and deaths, particularly on the national highways that traverse its territory, underscoring the complex nature of road safety.
