Late one evening in a bustling city, a young delivery rider named Vickey was rushing to complete his last order when a speeding car ran a red light and collided with his two-wheeler. Though he survived, his injuries left him unable to work for months. Vickey’s story is not unique—it reflects the daily risks faced by millions of vulnerable road users in India, including pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeler riders.
At the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Marrakech, Morocco, world leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reducing such tragedies through the Marrakech Declaration, which calls for stronger vehicle regulations, equitable road safety policies, and better support for crash victims.
India, home to the second-largest road network in the world, was a key participant in the discussions, receiving the prestigious Prince Michael Road Safety Award for Bharat NCAP, a programme that has significantly improved four-wheeler safety standards.
Bridging the Gaps: Why Two-Wheeler Safety Needs Urgent Attention
While Bharat NCAP has raised safety benchmarks for cars, the next frontier is protecting India’s most vulnerable road users—two-wheeler riders. Despite the growing number of motorcyclists on Indian roads, safety regulations remain inadequate, leaving riders exposed to high risks.
Dr Prerana Arora Singh, CEO of People’s Trust India, who participated in the Marrakech conference, stressed the need to extend safety measures to two-wheeler users. She visited the Global Alliance of NGOs for Road Safety exhibition booth, showcasing grassroots initiatives that are making a difference.
'Indian NGOs play a crucial role in translating global commitments into real-world impact. From helmet awareness campaigns to pedestrian safety initiatives, these organizations bridge the gap between policy and practice. We must now focus on strengthening two-wheeler safety and ensuring justice for road crash victims,' Dr Singh said.
Vickey’s accident, like many others, could have been prevented with better enforcement, safer vehicle designs, and improved road infrastructure. Achieving these goals requires a multi-stakeholder approach:
- Government agencies must integrate road safety into urban planning, create pedestrian-friendly cities, and enforce stricter laws.
- The private sector should prioritize safer vehicle design and workplace road safety policies for delivery riders and commercial drivers.
- NGOs and civil society play a key role in awareness campaigns, victim advocacy, and policy monitoring.
'Governments set the policies, but real change happens on the ground. By working together, we can transform road safety from a commitment into a lived reality,' she emphasized.
The Road Ahead: Strengthening Two-Wheeler Safety Standards
With millions relying on two-wheelers for daily transport, India’s next big step in road safety lies in strengthening regulations for motorcycles and scooters. Key measures that can significantly reduce fatalities include:
- Mandatory advanced braking systems (ABS) for all motorcycles.
- Enforcing 100% helmet compliance, ensuring both riders and pillion passengers wear certified helmets.
- Developing safer road designs, including dedicated lanes for two-wheelers, to prevent conflicts with larger vehicles.
'We have made great strides in four-wheeler safety through Bharat NCAP, but we cannot stop there. The real challenge is protecting those on two wheels—the backbone of India’s transport system. Strengthening safety standards for motorcycles is the next crucial step,' Dr Singh highlighted.
India’s Role As A Regional Leader In Road Safety
India’s commitment to road safety extends beyond its borders. As the largest two-wheeler market in the world, India’s policies set a precedent for neighbouring Asian countries struggling with similar challenges. By leading the way in policy innovation, vehicle safety standards, and data-driven enforcement, India can become a regional leader in road safety.
'India has the potential to be a beacon of light for road safety in Asia. If we successfully implement policies that protect our most vulnerable road users, other nations will follow our lead,' she said.
Justice For Road Crash Victims: A Forgotten Priority
Beyond prevention, the Marrakech Declaration also highlights the need for victim justice, ensuring that those affected by road crashes are not left behind.
- Faster insurance settlements can reduce financial stress on victims’ families.
- Stronger legal frameworks can hold reckless drivers accountable.
- Expanded trauma care services can save lives in the critical minutes after a crash.
'We must not only prevent crashes but also ensure justice for victims. Timely compensation, medical care, and legal support are essential for those affected by road crashes,' she added.
Making Indian Roads Safer For All
Vickey’s story is not just his own—it reflects the daily struggles of countless road users in India. While receiving the Prince Michael Road Safety Award for Bharat NCAP is a moment of pride, it must also serve as a call to action. India must now extend its leadership to two-wheeler safety, pedestrian infrastructure, and victim justice, ensuring that no one is left vulnerable on the roads.
By uniting government, the private sector, and civil society, India can transform its roads from high-risk zones into safe pathways for millions. The time to act is now—because road safety is not just about policies, it’s about saving lives.
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