HYDERABAD: The recent rise in accidents on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) in Rachakonda Commissionerate has raised concerns about the safety of drivers following the increase in speed limit from 100 kmph to 120 kmph. While authorities maintain that the ORR is equipped for higher speeds, the number of accidents, which rose from 51 in 2022 to 68 in 2023, paint a grim picture.
Recognising the need for improved safety measures, Rachakonda Traffic DCP V Sreenivasulu said he has analysed the increase in the number of accidents on the ORR. “We have requested the Hyderabad Growth Corridor Limited (HGCL) to implement a range of measures to prevent accidents,” said the officer.
The Rachakonda Traffic DCP added that according to the HGCL, the ORR roads are perfect for driving at a speed of 120 kmps but it is because of the human errors the accidents are surging.
Additionally, Naresh Raghavan, who has written a book on road safety measures, said, “The 4Es framework for road safety comes into play. While Engineering, Emergency Response and Enforcement have seen significant improvements in Telangana, which boasts world-class roads and strict regulations, the ‘E’ of Education which is also the foundation, remains neglected. Educating the driver is the only meaningful change one can bring and there will be an evident decrease in the number of accident cases reported.”
“The change can be put into practice by mass training where the RTO has to set up a study class of just two hours, like a movie for licence applicants. NGOs, which will be working through CSR, will be more than happy to set this up. All we need is government backing for the move,” he added.
Enhanced surveillance: Installing CCTV cameras along the entire ORR stretch to provide crucial visual evidence in case of accidents and enable better monitoring of traffic flow
Dedicated breakdown or accident zones: Eight designated parking zones are required on the ORR to be strategically placed at 15 km intervals on both sides, to offer safe zones for vehicles experiencing breakdowns or accidents to prevent obstructions on the main carriageway
Stricter speed enforcement: Deploying speed guns every 20 km on both sides to prevent reckless driving and ensure adherence to the revised speed limit
Increased visible patrolling: Regular patrolling by dedicated vehicles across the entire ORR stretch to enhance quick response to incidents and provide a visible deterrent to potential violations
Rapid vehicle recovery: Deploying cranes for expeditious removal of breakdown and accident vehicles to minimise traffic disruptions and potential hazards
Clearer signage and lane discipline: Improved signage at toll plazas and throughout the ORR, including lane markings, electronic displays, and painted lane speeds (120/80 km/h) to promote clarity and responsible lane usage. This includes designating specific lanes for heavy goods vehicles (3 and 4) and light motor vehicles (1 and 2) every 5 km
Enhanced median safety: Increasing the kerb height at medians to act as a physical barrier, reducing the risk of vehicles crossing over to the oncoming traffic
Improved visibility: Rumble strips and radium studs to be placed before entry and exit points to provide better visibility for drivers, especially during low-light conditions
Public awareness campaigns: Regular campaigns on social media and other platforms to educate road users about traffic rules and regulations, promoting responsible driving behaviour