Pune: The Maharashtra Transport Department has successfully reduced the number of accidents on the Samruddhi Highway by implementing a comprehensive four-point strategy.

This plan, which includes regular breath analyzer tests, speed monitoring, tire inspections, and penalties for lane cutting, has led to a 20% decrease in accidents and a 33% reduction in fatalities.

The department has been enforcing 24-hour monitoring at eight key points along the highway over the past two years. Approximately 200,000 vehicles have been inspected, and more than 15,000 were penalized for violations, ranging from speeding to improper lane usage.

The majority of these inspections were conducted at the entry and exit points of the highway, areas known for a higher risk of accidents. This focused approach has played a major role in improving road safety.

In addition to monitoring speed and lane discipline, drivers are routinely tested for alcohol consumption. Regular tire inspections and counseling on road safety have further contributed to the overall success of the initiative.

Bharat Kalaskar, Deputy Transport Commissioner, Mumbai, commented on the results, emphasizing that the department’s strict enforcement has directly led to the decline in accident rates.

Recently, the Public Works Department (PWD) approved the construction of a 53-kilometer six-lane flyover connecting Pune to Shirur. This ambitious project will further extend to link with the Samruddhi Mahamarg via Ahmednagar and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, enhancing connectivity across key regions in Maharashtra.

The flyover is set to commence near Kesnand village, located on the outskirts of Pune, and will stretch across 53 kilometers to Shirur.