Punjab Government’s Road Safety Initiatives Save Over 37,000 Lives

Punjab News: Punjab has seen a major drop in road accidents thanks to government action. Earlier, 15 to 16 people were dying every day in road mishaps, leaving families devastated. To tackle this crisis, the Bhagwant Mann-led government launched two key programs in 2024: the Road Safety Force (SSF) and the 'Farishatey' (Angels) Scheme. These initiatives focus on preventing accidents and providing immediate help to victims, making the state’s roads much safer.

Saving Lives with Speed and Technology

Punjab became the first state in India to have a special force for road safety. Started in 2024, the SSF has shown a huge impact in less than a year. Teams are now placed every 30 kilometers on Punjab’s 4,100 km-long roads. Using 144 high-tech vehicles, they reach accident spots within 5 to 7 minutes. The 1,477-member team not only prevents accidents but also helps the police with drug control and other crimes. They use speed guns, body cameras, e-challan systems, and AI to make policing smart and fast. In 2024, no child died in school routes where SSF was active. So far, the SSF has saved about 37,110 lives, and accidents dropped by 45.55% from February to October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This shows how effective the Road Safety Force has been.

‘Farishatey’ Scheme: Helping Without Fear

While SSF prevents accidents, the 'Farishatey' scheme helps after accidents happen. Earlier, injured people often lay on roads because bystanders were scared to help, fearing police questions. To fix this, the government launched the 'Farishatey' scheme in 2024. It provides free and immediate hospital treatment to anyone injured in an accident. People who take victims to the hospital are called 'Farishata' (Angel) and receive Rs 2,000 and a certificate. Helpers are not questioned by police or hospitals, encouraging more people to help without fear. Together, the SSF and the 'Farishatey' scheme form a complete safety system. SSF gives security, while 'Farishatey' encourages people to care for each other. The government also promotes women’s participation, with 287 women now in SSF. These programs show real change and true empowerment. The Mann government has proven that its role is not just making rules but protecting lives. These schemes are more than projects they are a social movement, raising awareness, teaching responsibility, and inspiring citizens to become 'angels.' The SSF provides safety, and the 'Farishatey' scheme spreads trust and love. Together, they have reduced fear on Punjab’s roads and taught people to value life.