J&K Government Notifies Comprehensive Road Safety Policy 2025
JAMMU, March 15: In a decisive step towards reducing road accidents and fatalities, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially notified “The Jammu and Kashmir Road Safety Policy – 2025.” The policy aims to introduce a structured, integrated, and holistic approach to tackling road safety challenges across the Union Territory.
According to the notification, road transport remains the most dominant mode of transportation in J&K, necessitating a comprehensive framework to enhance safety measures. The government underscored the urgency of formulating a new policy by citing alarming statistics:
- Over 22.66 lakh vehicles are currently registered in J&K.
- In 2022, the Union Territory recorded 6,092 road accidents, resulting in 805 fatalities.
- In 2023, the number increased to 6,298 accidents, leading to 893 deaths.
A closer analysis revealed that 40% of all accidents occurred in the districts of Jammu, Udhampur, Samba, and Kathua, highlighting the need for targeted intervention strategies. Given this data, the J&K Government has set an ambitious goal of reducing road accidents and fatalities by 50% by 2030, working in coordination with all stakeholders and government agencies.
To ensure effective implementation, the policy establishes a robust institutional mechanism, empowering key departments to play a proactive role in promoting safer roads. Key measures include:
- Creation of the State Road Safety Council, chaired by the Transport Minister, with a lead agency headed by an Additional Transport Commissioner.
- Enhanced collaboration between the Motor Vehicles Department, Traffic Police, and local authorities to enforce safety regulations effectively.
- Public awareness campaigns through print, electronic, and social media, educating citizens about the consequences of reckless driving and traffic violations.
The government has also mandated District Road Development Committees (DRDCs) to identify accident-prone zones (black spots) every six months. Corrective actions such as improved road design, construction techniques, and traffic management must be implemented within the following six months to mitigate risks.
In a significant move, the government will introduce an accountability mechanism to ensure strict compliance with road construction and maintenance standards. Contractors and consultants responsible for poorly built or maintained roads will face penalties, including blacklisting for negligence leading to accidents.
Additionally, Development Authorities have been directed to expand parking facilities across urban centers. A new parking policy will require vehicle owners to secure parking space before purchasing a new vehicle, reducing roadside congestion. Municipal authorities will also impose dynamic parking fees, increasing costs for prolonged on-street parking to discourage misuse of public space.
To reduce pressure on road infrastructure, the government is promoting the use of public transportation over private vehicles. The policy encourages innovative features and incentives to make public transport a more attractive option for daily commuters.
Furthermore, the government is set to introduce a Non-Motorized Transport Policy aimed at protecting the rights of cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorized road users. This initiative will focus on dedicated cycling lanes, pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, and better urban planning to promote eco-friendly transportation.
Expressing confidence in the Road Safety Policy 2025, Transport Minister Satish Sharma stated that the policy will significantly enhance traffic enforcement in J&K through close coordination with the Traffic Police and Motor Vehicles Department.
“We will ensure that enforcement agencies are adequately trained and equipped to undertake their functions effectively and professionally,” Sharma affirmed. He emphasized that the government remains committed to adopting best practices, strengthening accident prevention strategies, and fostering a culture of responsible road use.
The Road Safety Policy 2025 marks a major milestone in J&K’s efforts to enhance road safety, minimize fatalities, and ensure a well-regulated transport system, paving the way for a safer, more sustainable future.
