In a proactive move to address the escalating concern of speeding-related accidents on Pune’s roads, the Pune Traffic Police, in partnership with the World Health Organization’s ‘Vital Strategies,’ has rolled out a comprehensive mass media campaign. Launched under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety (BIGRS), the campaign aims to raise awareness about the dire consequences of speeding, which has emerged as a primary cause of road accidents across the country.
Enforcement Boost and Critical Timing Insights
The four-week campaign, initiated on November 21, will witness an augmentation of enforcement measures, particularly during the night and early hours when speeding tends to peak. Analyzing road crash data from 2022, the Pune Police revealed a disturbing trend — the highest number of fatal accidents in the city occurred between 11:00 pm and 1:00 am. Out of 327 recorded deaths, 75 tragic incidents unfolded during this two-hour window. Empty roads during these hours often become breeding grounds for speeding vehicles, leading to fatal outcomes.
Inauguration and Powerful Narratives
As part of the campaign, Pune City Police Commissioner Ritesh Kumar and Collector Dr. Rajesh Deshmukh inaugurated a poignant 30-second Public Service Announcement. This emotional narrative features the heart-wrenching true story of Sanjay Narkar, a father who lost his 24-year-old son in a road accident. Through Mr. Narkar’s account, the campaign aims to shed light on the devastating effects of speeding and the profound impact on families that lose a loved one to a road accident.
Commissioner’s Perspective and Community Awareness
Commissioner Ritesh Kumar emphasized, “In the last few years, road speeding has emerged as a causative factor in fatal and serious injuries, affecting not only the victims but also crippling families emotionally and financially.” The campaign strives to dispel the misconception that speeding is exclusive to highways, emphasizing its prevalence in city areas during quieter times, which often results in increased fatalities.
Strategic Enforcement and Global Training Impact
Vijayakumar Magar, Deputy Commissioner of Pune Traffic Police, highlighted the importance of preventing speeding above regulated speed limits. He stated, “Through this campaign, we aim to reduce vehicle speeds for the safety of everyone.” The Pune Police will intensify enforcement at crucial intersections and high-risk areas, with officials trained through 14 sessions under the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety from 2022.
Remembering Lives Lost and Global Commemoration
Launched on the occasion of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Victims (WDOR), the campaign serves as a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in road accidents. WDOR, observed globally on the third Sunday of November each year, aligns with the global effort to reduce road accidents.
