Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday identified lane indiscipline as the primary cause of road accidents in India. Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the Question Hour, Gadkari shared that even his own car had been fined twice in Mumbai for violating traffic rules, underscoring the widespread nature of the issue.
Contrary to popular belief, Gadkari stated that speeding is not as significant a problem as it seems. “Globally, people drive fast, but lane indiscipline is where India faces its biggest challenge,” he emphasized.
The minister called for a robust campaign to educate citizens, particularly the youth, about traffic discipline. He also suggested that children be sensitized early on to understand the importance of adhering to traffic rules. Gadkari pointed out that technological measures, such as installing CCTV cameras, have been implemented to curb violations effectively.
In an appeal to his parliamentary colleagues, Gadkari urged members of the House to organize awareness programs in their constituencies. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla echoed his sentiment, emphasizing that lawmakers have a responsibility to educate citizens on traffic rules to prevent road accidents.
The minister’s candid admission and focus on lane discipline over speeding bring attention to the cultural and behavioral challenges that continue to plague India’s roads, making his remarks both timely and thought-provoking.
