Gurugram: Haryana Police have launched a state-wide campaign to reduce road accidents after official data showed that nearly 4,000 people died in accidents between January and October this year. The number is five times higher than the 800 deaths from murders during the same period.
In a message to all field officers, including SHOs, DSPs and traffic police, the Haryana DGP OP Singh called road accidents a “man-made disaster” that can be prevented with timely action. Officers have been asked to identify accident-prone spots, repair damaged stretches, and ensure that broken-down vehicles are removed immediately. Until such vehicles are cleared, reflective cones must be placed to alert other drivers.
Police have been directed to take strict action against drunk driving and overspeeding. Drivers found under the influence of alcohol will face 15 to 20 days in jail, while overspeeding vehicles will be challaned without leniency. Liquor vends on highways have been told to display posters warning drivers not to drink and drive.
Most victims of road accidents in Haryana are pedestrians and two-wheeler riders. Police have been told to deploy staff at vulnerable locations and take strict action against hit-and-run drivers, including cancellation of driving licences and jail terms of up to two years. Officers have been instructed to ensure that accident victims are taken to the nearest hospital within 30 minutes. SHOs must stay in touch with hospitals to ensure timely treatment.
The circular also asked officers to engage with truck operators to ensure drivers are trained and given enough rest. “Vehicles run for 24 hours to meet delivery deadlines. This increases the risk of accidents,” the message said, adding that operators may also be held accountable in fatal cases. Police will also work with the Public Works Department to fix poor road designs, missing signage, and unsafe cuts. Engineers responsible for design faults may be investigated in serious accidents.
Each police station has been told to review accident data from November and December last year and aim to reduce fatalities this winter. Officers who succeed will be honoured on Republic Day and treated to a ‘Bada Khana’ (community feast), while those who fail due to lack of effort will face departmental action. “The campaign aims to save lives through better enforcement, quicker response, and greater public awareness. Hundreds of lives can be saved through timely effort”, the directive said.
