Mumbai/Pune, 1st January 2024: In a significant stride towards road safety, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Limited, in collaboration with the State Highway Police, has seen a commendable reduction in fatal accidents on the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway (Mumbai-Pune Expressway). However, the battle against persistent speeding on this high-traffic corridor remains an ongoing challenge.
Numerous initiatives, including strategically placed CCTV cameras, the use of speed guns, anti-stop belts, and informative notice boards, have collectively contributed to a 50% decrease in accidents. Yet, the stubbornly high speed of vehicles continues to be a cause for concern, necessitating innovative solutions and an enhanced focus on public awareness.
The recent introduction of the French-made automatic machine ‘Mesta Fusion’ marks a significant step forward in curbing speeding on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This cutting-edge technology captures photographic evidence of speed limit violations, ensuring swift transmission of information to the highway police control room. Offenders now face not only a proposed fine of Rs 1000 but also the possibility of license suspension, creating a formidable deterrent against reckless driving.
Bor Ghat, known for congestion among heavy vehicles, poses a unique challenge. The introduction of automatic cameras on this stretch, imposing an instant fine of Rs 2000 on speed limit violators, demonstrates a tailored approach to address specific areas of concern.
While celebrating the successes, it is imperative to remain vigilant. The data from the past five years indicates a positive trend, but challenges persist. The decreasing trend in accidents is encouraging, but the battle against speeding demands sustained efforts and continuous innovation.
Accident Data on Mumbai-Pune Expressway (2019-2023):
- 2019:
- Accidents: 60
- Injured: 210
- Death: 61
- 2020:
- Accidents: 53
- Injured: 207
- Death: 60
- 2021:
- Accidents: 40
- Injured: 87
- Death: 40
- 2022:
- Accidents: 33
- Injured: 130
- Death: 50
- 2023:
- Accidents: 15
- Injured: 34
- Death: 23
