Odisha Presents Comprehensive Road Safety Initiatives on National Stage
Odisha showcased its technology-driven and community-focused road safety initiatives at the WHO National Dialogue on Road Safety Legislation held in New Delhi on October 15-16.
The state was represented by Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur, who highlighted Odisha’s integrated approach to improving road safety through enforcement, engineering, emergency response, and public participation.
During the national dialogue, Odisha presented a multi-pronged strategy that combines advanced technology, stricter enforcement, infrastructure development, and citizen engagement to reduce road accidents and enhance road user safety.
A key focus of the presentation was the state’s technology-enabled enforcement system.
Automated mechanisms are being used to detect traffic violations such as overspeeding, uninsured vehicles, and non-compliance with pollution norms, with offenders receiving e-challans backed by photographic and video evidence.
The state also highlighted infrastructure interventions aimed at reducing road accidents.
These include the development of truck terminals to prevent unsafe roadside parking and the establishment of cattle shelters to address accidents caused by stray animals on highways.
Odisha’s community-based safety programmes also received attention during the dialogue.
Under the Rakshak Scheme, local volunteers are trained to serve as first responders during emergencies, while the Junior Rakshak initiative engages NCC cadets in providing first aid and emergency assistance.
Officials further showcased the AMA RASTA WhatsApp chatbot, which enables citizens to report accidents instantly.
The system automatically alerts police, ambulance services, transport authorities, and trained responders, helping speed up rescue and emergency response efforts.
Another notable initiative presented was AMA SuVahak, a programme designed to empower women through professional driver training and entrepreneurship opportunities in the transport sector.
The Odisha delegation said the state’s road safety framework reflects a holistic model that integrates innovation, public participation, and inclusive development.
The initiatives were presented as examples of how technology and community engagement can work together to create safer roads and more responsive emergency systems.
