A chilling report has revealed that Ludhiana recorded the highest number of fatal fog-related road accidents among India’s million-plus cities in 2023. With 15 accidents and 11 deaths, the city’s troubling statistics have raised alarm bells about infrastructure and road safety measures.
The Winter Hazard
Northern India is known for dense winter fog, but Ludhiana’s numbers indicate a severe lack of preparedness. Drivers often face near-zero visibility conditions, yet the absence of proper signages, reflective road paint, and emergency services makes travel life-threatening.
Expert Observations
Road safety advocates emphasize that Ludhiana’s infrastructure is not equipped for extreme weather. Basic measures such as fog lights, digital warning boards, and speed control systems are either missing or poorly maintained.
Wider National Concern
Replicable Problem: Other cities in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh face similar risks every winter.
Economic Impact: Frequent accidents also disrupt trade and transport, causing financial losses.
Policy Call: Activists urge governments to integrate climate-responsive infrastructure in urban planning.
Conclusion
The Ludhiana case is a wake-up call for policymakers. Unless urgent steps are taken to improve road safety infrastructure, fog-related fatalities will continue to claim lives every year.
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