Mr. Prashant B. Sawardekar’s role in promoting road safety:
With an alarming number of lives at risk worldwide, road traffic accidents (RTAs) remain a pressing social issue. Every day, around 328 lives are lost—many of which could have been prevented with timely intervention and rescue efforts. Despite numerous road safety campaigns and awareness programs, India ranks first in road accident fatalities among 199 countries, accounting for nearly 11% of all accident-related deaths globally. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, when mobility was restricted, road accidents claimed 29,415 lives between March and June, with an additional 51,970 injuries. Clearly, road safety continues to be a major developmental and public health concern, ranking among the leading causes of death and injuries worldwide.
Recognizing road accidents as a significant cause of fatalities in India, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRT&H), Government of India, has emphasized the need for joint efforts between central and state governments to improve road infrastructure and safety measures, aiming to reduce casualties and mortality rates.
While the situation may seem grim, collective action can bring about meaningful change. Now, more than ever, we must work together to ensure safer roads and communities.
To enhance road safety and reduce accident-related fatalities, MoRT&H has entrusted the Indian Road Safety Mission, a non-profit organization, with leading grassroots-level road safety initiatives across the country. As part of this effort, Mr. Prashant B. Sawardekar, National President of the Indian Federation of App-Based Transport Workers, is actively encouraging drivers and all gig workers to participate in the government’s road safety quiz and course. By taking part in this initiative, they can enhance their road safety awareness and obtain official certificates, reinforcing their commitment to responsible driving.
Through widespread participation, we can collectively create a culture of road safety, saving countless lives and making our streets safer for everyone.
