In a tragic turn of events, the Samruddhi Expressway in Maharashtra has witnessed a significant number of road accidents, resulting in the loss of 88 lives over the past six months. The latest incident, which occurred on Saturday, claimed 25 lives when a private bus collided with a divider and subsequently caught fire. The state highway police officials have identified road hypnosis as one of the key contributing factors behind these accidents.
Road hypnosis, also known as highway hypnosis or driving hypnosis, is a condition that occurs when a driver becomes detached from their surroundings and experiences a lapse in memory regarding the events that transpired during that particular period. This phenomenon poses a grave risk to road safety, as drivers who succumb to road hypnosis may fail to respond to critical situations promptly.
Authorities are now taking proactive measures to address this pressing issue and ensure the safety of commuters on the Samruddhi Expressway. Recognizing the importance of creating awareness among drivers, they are planning to launch an extensive campaign to educate motorists about the dangers of road hypnosis and the strategies to prevent it.
The primary focus of the campaign will be to help drivers identify the early signs of road hypnosis, such as feeling drowsy, experiencing difficulty in concentrating, or having gaps in memory while driving. It will emphasize the importance of taking breaks during long journeys, avoiding monotony through engaging activities, and implementing techniques like switching radio stations or adjusting the temperature inside the vehicle to maintain alertness.
Additionally, authorities are considering the installation of electronic signboards along the expressway that display messages aimed at combating road hypnosis. These signboards may include reminders to take breaks, stay hydrated, and engage in brief physical exercises to enhance circulation and mental acuity.
The police department is also planning to increase its presence and surveillance on the expressway. They will deploy additional patrol vehicles to monitor driver behavior and promptly address any signs of fatigue or distraction. Moreover, they will collaborate with transport authorities to enforce stricter regulations regarding driver working hours and mandatory rest periods, particularly for commercial vehicles.
To complement these efforts, the state government is exploring the possibility of introducing advanced technologies in vehicles that can detect signs of drowsiness or inattentiveness. These systems could alert drivers through visual or auditory cues, prompting them to take necessary precautions or rest breaks.
Furthermore, the government intends to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the expressway’s infrastructure and road design to identify any potential improvements that can enhance safety. This evaluation may involve assessing the adequacy of lighting, signage, and road markings, as well as exploring the implementation of smart road technologies that can proactively warn drivers about hazardous conditions ahead.
The Samruddhi Expressway holds tremendous promise for Maharashtra’s infrastructure and economic development. However, the recent spate of accidents underscores the critical need to prioritize road safety measures. By addressing the issue of road hypnosis head-on, authorities aim to create a safer and more secure travel experience for all road users.
It is crucial for drivers to understand the risks associated with road hypnosis and to take proactive steps to combat it. By doing so, they can contribute to reducing accidents, saving lives, and making the Samruddhi Expressway a model of safety and efficiency for expressways across the country. With a concerted effort from all stakeholders, Maharashtra can pave the way towards a future where road travel is not only convenient but also free from the shadows of road hypnosis.
