IIT Bhubaneswar took a significant step toward promoting road safety education by hosting an impactful awareness session on November 6, 2025. In collaboration with Janakrosh, a Nagpur-based NGO dedicated to road safety initiatives, the institute organized this crucial program to address India’s alarming road accident statistics. With over 172,000 fatalities reported in India during 2023 alone, such educational programs are essential for fostering responsible road behavior and saving lives.
Janakrosh NGO Leads Road Safety Initiative
Shri P. Y. Khandekar, President of Janakrosh, delivered the awareness talk to an engaged audience of over 300 participants. Janakrosh has established itself as a leading organization actively promoting road safety education throughout India. The NGO’s mission, “Janakrosh for a Better Tomorrow,” focuses on creating awareness about traffic regulations and responsible road behavior across educational institutions and communities.
Key Focus Areas of the Presentation
Shri Khandekar’s presentation utilized engaging visuals and illustrations to communicate critical road safety concepts effectively. His comprehensive approach covered multiple dimensions of traffic safety, making complex regulations accessible and memorable for the diverse audience.
Critical Traffic Violations Addressed
Common Accident Causes Highlighted
The presentation emphasized several dangerous behaviors that contribute significantly to road accidents. Shri Khandekar provided detailed insights into traffic violations that frequently lead to tragic consequences.
Traffic Rule Violations
Breaking traffic signals, ignoring stop signs, and disregarding lane discipline emerged as major concerns. These violations create unpredictable situations that endanger all road users.
Wrong-Side Driving and Walking
Driving or walking on the wrong side of the road was highlighted as a particularly dangerous practice. This behavior causes head-on collisions and creates confusion for other road users.
Over-Speeding Dangers
Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases accident severity. Shri Khandekar explained how speeding significantly amplifies collision impact and reduces survival chances.
Mobile Phone Usage While Driving
Distracted driving due to mobile phone usage represents a growing threat. The presentation stressed that even brief distractions can result in fatal accidents.
Helmet Safety Neglect
Not wearing helmets while riding two-wheelers was identified as a critical safety violation. Helmets substantially reduce head injury severity during accidents.
Campus Safety Implementation
Director’s Message on Traffic Compliance
Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director of IIT Bhubaneswar, reinforced the importance of implementing road safety principles within campus boundaries. His message connected the broader road safety mission with immediate, actionable campus policies.
30 km/hr Speed Limit Enforcement
The Director urged all institute members to strictly maintain the 30 km/hr speed limit throughout campus premises. This reasonable speed restriction ensures pedestrian safety and prevents accidents in high-traffic academic areas.
Student Vigilance Encouraged
Prof. Karmalkar encouraged students to remain alert about traffic violations and report them promptly. This community-based approach fosters collective responsibility for campus safety.
Global and National Road Safety Statistics
Alarming Fatality Numbers
Road accidents claimed over 1.3 million lives globally in 2023, establishing traffic safety as a critical public health concern. India contributed more than 172,000 fatalities to this devastating global toll, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive safety education.
Impact of Awareness Initiatives
Programs like the Janakrosh awareness talk play vital roles in reversing these tragic trends. Education-focused interventions create lasting behavioral changes that significantly reduce accident rates over time.
Program Coordination and Participation
Dr. Shantanu Patra, Professor-in-Charge (Extra Academic Affairs) at IIT Bhubaneswar, coordinated this successful program. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 300 attendees, including students, faculty members, staff, and campus residents. This diverse participation demonstrates the institute’s commitment to comprehensive safety education across all community segments.
Lasting Impact on Audience
Shri Khandekar’s impactful presentation left a profound impression on participants, reinforcing the critical need for responsible road behavior. The combination of statistical evidence, visual illustrations, and practical guidance created a compelling case for traffic rule compliance.
Road safety awareness initiatives like this collaboration between IIT Bhubaneswar and Janakrosh represent essential steps toward reducing India’s road accident fatalities. By educating future leaders and current community members about traffic regulations and responsible behavior, such programs create ripple effects that extend far beyond campus boundaries.
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