In Guwahati and other urban centers, vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and tricycle commuters have accounted for 35% of fatalities
GUWAHATI: Guwahati has witnessed a staggering 31.82% rise in fatalities from road accidents in November, even as there has been a drop in the overall fatality number across the state.
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Speaking after a cabinet meeting which was held in Dibrugarh on Tuesday, December 24, Sarma singled out Guwahati’s ratio despite the state’s overall road safety efforts. In contrast, districts like Nagaon have achieved a 73% reduction in road deaths.
Most of these accidents have occurred between the Jalukbari-Khanapara stretch, which has recently become a hotspot for late-night fatalities.
This disparity, Sarma explained, is due to a combination of factors such as increased instances of drunken driving, ongoing highway construction, and deteriorating road conditions in certain areas. The chief minister also noted that improved roads, particularly in rural areas, often lead to higher speeds and more self-inflicted accidents.
“Speed breakers will soon be installed at strategic locations, including near schools, hospitals, and police stations, to mitigate these risks,” he announced.
In Guwahati and other urban centers, vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and tricycle commuters have accounted as victims for 35% of fatalities. Sarma further called for immediate action to protect these groups through the establishment of local road safety plans by District Road Committees (DRCs).
To curb accidents, the state government is also rolling out several initiatives, including the installation of reflective backlights on all vehicles, mandatory from January. Additional measures include installing street cameras, building foot-over bridges in high-risk areas, and electrifying highways.
Authorities have stated that non-compliance to follow protocol may result in penalties.
