Road Ministry Proposes App for Truckers to Avoid Hit-and-Run Chaos

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways recently recommended the implementation of a technology system to enable truck drivers to report accidents promptly, potentially preventing such incidents from being classified as hit-and-run cases under the new law.

According to Anurag Jain, the Secretary of Road Transport and Highways, the matter is within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs, which will make the final decision regarding this initiative.

Jain's statement follows a recent protest by truckers concerning the stringent provisions related to hit-and-run cases under the upcoming Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita law. The strike was subsequently resolved after discussions between the protesting truckers and government officials.

Expressing concerns, Jain highlighted that truck drivers fear public backlash if they halt after an accident to assist the victim. To address this issue, the proposal suggests leveraging technology as a solution. Jain emphasized, "We have suggested that the driver use a technology system to inform authorities, and then it would not be treated as a hit-and-run case. After that, the driver can subsequently inform police within 25-50 km area from the accident site."

India's Road Transport and Highways Ministry has thrown a potential lifeline to truck drivers worried about stringent hit-and-run provisions in the upcoming Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The ministry has proposed a tech-based solution in the form of a mobile app that could help truckers avoid being penalized for accidents if they promptly inform authorities.

Hit-and-Run Fears Drive Strike, Tech Seen as Potential Solution:

Recent concerns surrounding the BNS provisions led to a three-day nationwide strike by truckers. The law imposes harsh penalties, including up to 10 years' imprisonment or ₹7 lakh fine, for drivers involved in serious accidents who flee the scene without informing authorities.

Understanding the Driver's Dilemma:

According to Road Transport and Highways Secretary Anurag Jain, truckers fear stopping after accidents due to potential public harassment or violence. This "catch-22" situation prompted the ministry to explore technological solutions.

The Proposed App: Informing Authorities, Not Fleeing the Scene:

The proposed app would equip truck drivers with a tool to instantly notify authorities about any accident they are involved in. This timely notification, within 25-50 km of the accident site, would differentiate genuine emergencies from deliberate hit-and-runs, potentially shielding drivers from harsh penalties.

The Ball in Home Ministry's Court:

While the idea has garnered interest, the final decision rests with the Ministry of Home Affairs. After a recent meeting with representatives of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC), the Home Secretary promised to consult with the association before invoking the new hit-and-run penalty provisions.