The government, corporate entities, and NGOs have united with a common purpose to enhance road safety. On Friday, around 20 organisations officially launched the 'Forum for Coalition of Public-Private Partners in Road Safety.' They have signed an agreement to work collectively in order to promote and enhance road safety conditions in the country.

The establishment of this forum, operating under the International Road Federation (IRF) India Chapter, was marked by a special ceremony attended by the UN Secretary General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Jean Todt.

Diverse partnership network

Key partners in this collaborative initiative comprise the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRT&H), Maruti Suzuki India, Military Engineering Services (MES), AIIMS, 3M India, World Bank, PVR, DRDO, Motolance, Netradyne, Avery Dennison, MBM University, Grandpitstop, Intel Technology, CRRI, Orafol India, Indian Roads Congress (IRC), WIAA, Prabhaav Learnings, Muskaan Foundation, TRAX, and SIAM.

Addressing the gathering, Jean Todt emphasised that India continues to face significant road safety challenges, with one out of every ten global road fatalities occurring within the country. He stressed the necessity for evidence-based interventions and substantial improvements in road safety that involve both the private and public sectors.

Amit Kumar Ghosh of MoRTH, highlighted the importance of increasing public awareness regarding road safety through educational campaigns, training programs, and the dissemination of information on safe driving practices.

KK Kapila, President Emeritus, IRF, emphasised the need for effective enforcement of traffic laws and regulations, including measures to deter behaviours such as overspending, drunken driving, and other risky actions.

(With PTI Inputs)