Odisha Sets Roadmap for ‘Zero Accident’ Mission with New Safety Initiatives
In a strategic push to curb road fatalities, the Odisha government is set to launch the Zero Accident Development (ZAD) program—a flagship initiative aimed at achieving substantial reductions in traffic-related deaths and injuries across the state. The decision was solidified during a high-level review meeting held on Saturday, chaired by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department.
The session brought together key stakeholders including Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur and renowned road safety expert Prof. Venkatesh Balasubramanian from IIT Madras. The meeting served as a planning platform for upcoming safety campaigns, capacity-building programs, and technology-based interventions.
A major highlight was the planned launch of the Zero Accident Development program, which will act as the central pillar of Odisha’s evolving road safety framework. Designed to bring systemic change, the ZAD program will address high-risk zones, enforce safer traffic management, and improve emergency response systems.
The meeting also finalized preparations for Chintan Shibira, a state-led conclave intended to bring together experts, administrators, and community leaders to explore innovative road safety practices and build collaborative solutions. Discussions will span policy reform, inter-agency coordination, and actionable enforcement strategies.
Prof. Balasubramanian proposed a comprehensive capacity-building roadmap, including specialized training for traffic police, master trainers, first responders, educators, and healthcare professionals. The goal is to enhance institutional readiness in both accident prevention and post-crash response.
Additionally, the government will roll out a strong Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) strategy to raise public awareness. Departments have been instructed to develop behavioral-change campaigns targeting unsafe driving practices and promoting road discipline.
To support data-driven decision-making, the state will introduce a real-time road safety dashboard. This digital tool will track accident metrics, enforcement efforts, and key performance indicators, enabling prompt and informed interventions.
Concluding the meeting, officials reaffirmed their commitment to a coordinated, multi-agency approach. Odisha’s Zero Accident mission is positioned to become a national model by integrating policy innovation, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach.
