Chandigarh has witnessed a remarkable turnaround in road safety, thanks to the Punjab government’s innovative Road Safety Force (SSF). Launched last year, this dedicated unit has slashed fatalities from road accidents by a staggering 48 percent. The swift emergency response teams, immediate first aid at crash sites, and streamlined access to advanced trauma centers have proven game-changers.
Once ranking among India’s top three states for road accident deaths, Punjab has reversed its fortunes dramatically. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann highlighted these achievements on Sunday, crediting the SSF for transforming high-risk ‘black spots’ like the Patiala-Sirhind highway. The force has also contributed to building 43,000 kilometers of high-quality roads, enhancing overall infrastructure safety.
Mann noted that the model’s success has drawn nationwide attention. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced it in his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, positioning Punjab’s approach as a national roadmap for road safety. Several other states have approached Punjab to replicate this public safety initiative.
Deployed across 4,200 kilometers of accident-prone national highways, SSF teams patrol rigorously, enforce traffic rules, and act as a strong deterrent against violations. Beyond saving lives, they ensure the recovery and return of victims’ valuables and cash from accident sites. This comprehensive strategy marks a stark contrast to previous administrations, which overlooked such critical public welfare issues.
As Punjab continues to lead by example, its SSF model promises to inspire safer roads across the country, potentially saving thousands of lives annually.
