IRTE Suggests Dedicated Two-Wheeler Lanes and Stricter Law Enforcement Across India

Two-wheeler safety is pitiful in our country, both in terms of infrastructure and awareness. The same topic was recently discussed at a workshop jointly organised by the Global New Car Assessment Program (GNCAP) and the Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE). The suggestions for improving matters were quite unique and could actually make our roads safer.

Among them all, the need for separate lanes for two-wheelers and tougher enforcement of safety regulations to reduce accidents across India was discussed at length. Experts highlighted that motorised two-wheelers, including electrics, make up 44 per cent of all two-wheelers in the country. “This (the above suggestions) will help in rider safety and avoid crashes as they are the most vulnerable road users along with pedestrians,” suggested Rohit Baluja, President of the Institute of Road Traffic Education (IRTE).

(Also Read: India Developing An BNCAP Like Safety Crash Test Program For Commercial Vehicles And E-Rickshaws)

India currently reports the highest number of fatal road accidents globally, with approximately 4,80,000 road crashes annually resulting in 1,80,000 deaths. In Delhi alone, two-wheeler riders account for 38 per cent of all traffic fatalities. And when you have hooligans who have no control over their actions, it becomes all the more difficult for rider safety. 

K.K. Kapila, President Emeritus of the International Road Federation (IRF), emphasised that two-wheelers remain essential to urban transportation despite improvements in public transit. "We have to live with them. The only solution is to find ways and means to make them safe with use of technology," said Kapila. He also showcased innovations including a smart helmet that prevents vehicle ignition unless worn, a motorcycle ambulance developed with DRDO that could save lives during the critical "golden hour" after accidents, and a motorcycle equipped with airbags developed in collaboration with IIT-Delhi.

(Also Read: Govt. Mulling Incentives To Boost Electric Truck Adoption)

"What is needed is a change of mindset, education and strict enforcement," said Harjeet Singh, Executive Advisor at Hero MotoCorp. Singh also called for the government to establish age limits for two-wheelers similar to those for cars, noting that India has approximately 300 million two-wheelers with no mandated retirement age. 

Lastly, David Ward, President Emeritus of GNCAP, stressed the importance of safe technological systems like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) for all two-wheelers. He noted that Indian consumers now have better choices for safer vehicles thanks to GNCAP and BNCAP assessment ratings.

Whether or not these suggestions are enforced or not, the onus on safety does ultimately lie with the rider, aka you, the reader. Wearing the right protective gear for any form of riding, be it for commutes, leisure or pleasure, is key to combat the dangers on our roads. And making sure that the health of your two-wheeler is great will help you stay safe even in troubled times.