Promoting a safe transportation system requires a comprehensive approach, encompassing the Engineering of roads, Engineering of vehicles, Enforcement, Education, and Emergency care. These 4Es have been recognized globally as key pillars for advancing road safety.
India, as a developing nation, accounts for over 11% of the world’s road accident fatalities. As a signatory to the UN declaration, the country aims to reduce road accidents by 50% by 2030. However, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has set an ambitious target to achieve this reduction by 2025.
In line with these efforts, the International Road Federation (IRF), a global organization dedicated to promoting safer roads worldwide, in collaboration with the ITS India Forum, an NGO, has established the Surakshit Safar (Safe Journey) Pavilion at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. The pavilion will focus on advancing the 4Es of road safety to reduce road accident deaths.
“The successful implementation of the 4Es in road safety leads to heightened awareness, safer road infrastructure, better adherence to traffic laws, promotion of responsible behavior, and ongoing improvement of safety measures. The end result is a substantial reduction in road accidents, injuries, and fatalities, ultimately fostering a safer and more secure road environment for all,” said Mr. K.K. Kapila, President Emeritus of the International Road Federation (IRF).
He further emphasized, “Engineering of roads involves regular road safety audits, the elimination of black spots, proper road signage, and enhanced visibility. Vehicle engineering includes retrofitting commercial vehicles—especially trucks—with Underrun Protection Devices (FUPD), Side Underrun Protection Devices (SUPD), and Rear Underrun Protection Devices (RUPD). Additionally, affixing conspicuity tapes or retro-reflective tapes/reflectors to heavy vehicles helps improve night visibility, while retrofitting Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) on existing motorized two-wheelers enhances overall safety.”
“Strict Enforcement helps discipline on roads and Education includes imparting the road safety education and campaign of the population of all age groups along the selected road corridor is one of the important actions required. “The Emergency care system available along a selected road is one of the critical requirements to minimise fatalities and disabilities due to road accidents/crashes.” Said Akhilesh Srivastva, President of ITS India Forum and Executive Vice President IRF-India chapter..
“Motorlance and ambulance on a motorcycle was the star attraction at the Surakshit Safar Pavilion. The main features of the Motorlance include it is equipped with a patient chamber with medical box and other essential medical accessories. These include an advanced Air Sanitization Unit, an auto-loading Stretcher transformable into a wheelchair, live monitoring system, GPS tracking, oxygen support and vibration suppression.” Said Mr Srivastva.
Mr. Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), visited the pavilion and lauded the ongoing efforts to reduce fatal road accidents. The International Road Federation (IRF) also urged the minister to deploy motorbike ambulances at key accident-prone locations on highways and expressways.
The pavilion showcased various innovative products, including Ador Smart Signals, driver monitoring systems, trauma care solutions, and a smart wearable helmet that prevents a two-wheeler from starting unless worn.