Rajasthan High Court Demands Urgent Road Safety Measures Following Fatal Accidents

A speeding truck lost control and collided with multiple vehicles on Monday, resulting in 14 fatalities.

In response to the recent surge in fatal road accidents across Rajasthan, the High Court has taken suo moto action, requesting a preliminary report from the government regarding road safety improvement measures.

The division bench comprising Justice Anuroop Singhi and Justice PS Bhati referenced the constitutional right to life under Article 21, emphasizing that recent tragic events necessitate immediate attention to road safety concerns.

Last month, 26 people perished when an AC-sleeper bus caught fire in Jaisalmer. This week has witnessed two more devastating incidents: 15 people killed in a tempo traveller-truck collision in Phalodi and 14 fatalities in Jaipur when a recklessly driven dumper truck crashed into over a dozen vehicles.

The court has instructed representatives from various departments including Medical & Health, Revenue, PWD, Local Bodies, Home, Transport, and NHAI, along with the additional solicitor general and additional advocate general, to present their positions on road and public safety matters, particularly addressing the recent untimely deaths.

Both central and state governments have been directed to submit their responses to the court.

Five amicus curiae have been appointed with instructions to prepare a consolidated statement with specific recommendations for strengthening the regulatory framework concerning road and public safety.

The High Court stated that recent events have compelled judicial intervention to ensure authorities enhance regulatory frameworks to "mitigate the recurring loss of life and suffering."

The bench further expressed that it is "a matter of grave concern" that despite the nation valuing its human resources, widespread negligence regarding public and road safety continues to amplify societal distress. The evidence presented to the court indicates systemic issues requiring judicial attention and direction.

Extending condolences to families who lost loved ones in recent accidents, the court scheduled the next hearing for November 13.