Pune: In a bid to reduce road accidents and prevent the loss of innocent lives, the Supreme Court's Road Safety Committee has called for the strict implementation of traffic rules by all relevant authorities.

The Committee, led by retired Justice Abhay Sapre, emphasized the need for a comprehensive road safety policy and stressed mandatory helmet use for two-wheeler riders.

At a recent meeting held at the Legislative Assembly, Justice Sapre expressed concern over the rising number of fatalities due to reckless driving.

He highlighted that the Supreme Court has taken serious measures to address road accidents, ensuring timely medical assistance for victims and reducing the death toll.

The permanent Road Safety Committee, established under the Court's supervision, is actively monitoring road safety measures and directly reports to the Supreme Court.

Justice Sapre urged authorities, including the transport and police departments, to work collaboratively and enforce traffic rules strictly using modern technology.

He also stressed the importance of citizens voluntarily following traffic regulations, such as wearing seat belts, avoiding speeding, and refraining from using mobile phones while driving. Mandatory helmet use for both riders and pillion passengers on two-wheelers was highlighted as a critical step.

During the meeting, Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimnavar presented data showing a significant reduction in road accident fatalities on major highways, with a 30% decrease on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and a 33% drop on the Samruddhi Expressway.

Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar announced that helmet enforcement would be made compulsory for government employees and that vehicle inspections would be extended to district and city levels.