Centre Unveils Robust Traffic Reforms to Curb Road Accidents by 2030
The Central Government of India is poised to implement transformative reforms aimed at enhancing road safety and reducing traffic violations by 2030. These measures, outlined in a recent directive to state governments, focus on leveraging technology and offering incentives to modernize vehicular infrastructure.
Automated Traffic Enforcement
To address the rampant violation of traffic regulations, the Centre has mandated the installation of CCTV cameras for automated challan issuance. These cameras, integrated with traffic control rooms, will monitor and penalize offenders in real-time, ensuring stricter compliance with traffic laws.
Incentives for Vehicle Scrappage
The government has introduced a scrappage policy to phase out older vehicles, which contribute significantly to pollution and accidents. States are encouraged to incentivize owners to scrap vehicles over 15 years old, with financial rewards for transitioning to newer, safer models.
Financial Support for States
To facilitate these reforms, the Centre has adopted a ‘first-come, first-serve’ funding model. States implementing the proposed measures by December 2025 will receive priority funding, with allocations varying by state group—Andhra Pradesh in Group A is slated for ₹200 crore, while Telangana in Group B will receive ₹100 crore.
Scrappage Incentives Breakdown
The scrappage policy offers tiered incentives based on the number of vehicles scrapped:
- Government Vehicles: ₹50,000 for the first 500 vehicles, ₹60,000 for vehicles 501–1,000, with up to ₹1.5 lakh for over 6,000 vehicles.
- Private Vehicles: ₹5,000 for the first 500 vehicles, ₹7,500 for vehicles 501–2,000, and up to ₹20,000 for over 5,000 vehicles.
This structured approach aims to encourage the replacement of outdated vehicles with environmentally friendly alternatives.
Road Safety Targets
The directive underscores that 80% of road accident fatalities in India result from traffic violations. The government aims to halve these incidents by 2030 through electronic enforcement in urban areas with populations exceeding 5 lakh, coupled with rigorous monitoring via CCTV systems.
Challenges in Public Compliance
Despite governmental efforts, public adherence to traffic regulations remains low. Issues like overspeeding and non-compliance continue to endanger lives and disrupt traffic flow, necessitating these stringent reforms to foster a culture of accountability.
Strategic Urban Planning
Beyond traffic management, the Centre’s directive includes reforms in urban planning, land use, and agricultural practices. These holistic measures aim to create safer, more efficient urban ecosystems, with road safety as a critical component.
Implementation Timeline
States are urged to act swiftly, with a deadline set for December 2025. The proactive adoption of these reforms will not only secure funding but also position states as leaders in modernizing India’s transport infrastructure.
Expected Outcomes
By integrating technology-driven enforcement and incentivizing vehicle upgrades, the government anticipates a significant reduction in road accidents and pollution levels. These reforms mark a pivotal step toward safer roads and sustainable urban mobility.