Nitin Gadkari Blames Poor Road Design for Rising Accidents in India

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has blamed civil engineers, consultants, and faulty road plans for India’s increasing road accidents and deaths. Speaking at the Global Road Infratech Summit & Expo (GRIS) on Thursday, he said badly designed roads are a major reason for accidents, yet no one is held responsible.

Shocking Road Accident Numbers

Every year, India reports 4.8 lakh road accidents, causing 1.8 lakh deaths and 4 lakh serious injuries. Two-wheeler riders and pedestrians suffer the most. “About 66.4% of the people who die are between 18-45 years old. This not only causes emotional pain but also results in a 3% loss to the GDP,” Gadkari said.

Who is Responsible?

Gadkari blamed civil engineers for poor road planning. “The real problem is with those who make the road plans (DPRs). They make thousands of mistakes. After 10 years of experience, I feel that FIRs should be filed against them,” he stated.

Need for Better Road Signs and Safety Measures

He also criticized India’s poor road signs and markings, comparing them to Spain, Austria, and Switzerland, where roads are much safer. He urged experts to use modern technology and eco-friendly materials to improve safety.

Government’s Plan to Reduce Accidents

The government wants to cut road accidents by 50% by 2030. Gadkari called for better infrastructure, strict safety rules, and faster emergency response systems to save lives.

KK Kapila, former president of the International Road Federation (IRF), agreed with Gadkari. He said safer road designs are necessary to prevent accidents and reduce deaths.