The tragic reality of road accidents in Goa continues to loom over the state which has often seen dangerous driving patterns. Data by the Transport Department shows a marginal decline in road accidents and fatalities, with 20 lives claimed in March. While this slight drop may prompt local authorities to express relief, the grim truth remains that Goa's roads are still perilously unsafe. The loss of life in any form — especially at the hands of errant motorists — should spur an immediate call to action rather than complacency.
Goa witnessed three fatal accidents in a single day on Sunday, exacerbating concerns regarding reckless driving, alcohol consumption, and rampant disregard for traffic laws. The grim statistic indicates that 25 per cent of victims in March were pedestrians. This statistic is as alarming as it is tragic, underscoring a failure to protect vulnerable road users, those who are defenceless. The majority of the fatal accidents were linked to fearless two-wheeler riders and negligent drivers, highlighting an urgent need for robust deterrents to safeguard all road users.
While enforcing traffic rules is fundamental, it is evident that Goa's enforcement agencies are struggling to keep up with rising vehicle density and increasingly careless road conduct. Erratic driving behaviours including over-speeding, reckless driving, and using cell phones while driving, remain common grounds for accidents. There are positives no doubt like introducing new protocols in the form of body cameras for police besides establishing order in a messed-up and corrupt system, and that may have helped. But, the question is, whether the 20 road deaths are any consolation to the change. Have the road enforcement authorities met its objectives? And, have they done enough?
A glaring example of this lack of proactivity is the status of AI-enabled CCTV surveillance cameras, which were supposed to be installed to monitor traffic violations effectively across strategic locations. Instead of embracing technology to bolster road safety, the government's delay in implementing such initiatives speaks volumes about its lack of seriousness regarding this critical issue. The previously effective AI camera at the iconic Merces junction has been left unattended, exposing the ongoing lethargy and negligence that permeates the system. Authorities must ask themselves: Are they genuinely invested in enhancing road safety, or are lives simply falling through the cracks of apathy?
The marginal decrease in accident rates fails to offer any comfort in the face of continued loss of life. It’s imperative to remember that every statistic translates into a personal tragedy for families. Dedicating resources to improve education regarding road safety, tightening the watch over violations, and harnessing technology for monitoring and enforcement are essential steps that must be taken. The public deserves assurance that their lives are a priority and that authorities are genuinely committed to making Goa’s roads safer for everyone.
Moreover, the burden of responsibility extends beyond law enforcement agencies. Motorists must recognize their part in this issue; respecting traffic rules is not just a legal requirement but a moral obligation. The conundrum of increasing accidents amid documented improvements only illustrates the stubborn societal attitude that the normalization of unsafe driving behaviours has etched in the fabric of Goa's road culture.
It is time for Goa to rise to the occasion, prioritizing proactive measures and embracing technology that can avert road tragedies. We must consistently question whether we are truly serious about road safety or simply churning out statistics to deflect our accountability. It’s imperative that road safety is treated with the urgency it deserves.
