Odisha Wins FICCI Road Safety Award 2024

Odisha has been recognized as the best state in India for road safety initiatives at the FICCI Road Safety Conclave, where the Union Minister for Road Transport, Nitin Gadkari, presented the award to Pradeep Kumar Mohanty, Joint Transport Commissioner. The state’s innovative 'SuVahak' program, aimed at enhancing the skills of heavy motor vehicle drivers, has been pivotal in reducing road accidents, as these drivers account for about 21% of fatalities in the state. The initiative has established four training centers and successfully trained over 29,000 drivers, creating numerous employment opportunities. Gadkari praised Odisha's approach and urged other states to adopt similar modern technologies to enhance road safety. The state has also implemented the Intelligent Enforcement Management System (IEMS) and developed trauma care centers to further support its road safety efforts. Overall, Odisha's comprehensive strategy serves as a model for other states to follow in their pursuit of reducing road accidents.