Team Herald
PONDA: The rising number of fatal accidents in Ponda and Mardol police jurisdictions has become a growing concern for locals, with 34 deaths reported in 2024. This translates to an average of one fatality per month. In comparison, the yearly average in previous years stood at approximately 24 deaths on Ponda’s roads.
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Despite various government initiatives, including training programmes, awareness campaigns, and road safety weeks, reckless driving and speeding continue to be major causes of accidents.
Ponda Traffic PI Krishna Sinhari stated that the traffic cell penalised 36,481 vehicle drivers in 2024 for various traffic violations. He highlighted that rash driving and driving under the influence of alcohol were among the leading causes of accidents.
“We urge all motorists to follow traffic rules to prevent fatalities. The traffic cell also conducts various awareness programmes at the school level to educate young people on the importance of road safety,” Sinhari said.
He further noted that while the number of cases involving riding without helmets has decreased, other traffic violations have increased.
While traffic police attribute accidents to violations, locals believe that poor road conditions and infrastructure also play a major role.
Social worker Sandeep Patkar emphasised the need to improve sharp turns and remove roadside encroachments, including illegal parking, to enhance road safety.
Another local Viraj Sapre pointed out that roads have been frequently dug up for development work over the past six to seven years, leading to potholes that contribute to accidents. He also highlighted the need to address black spots and dangerous turns at Farmagudi-Dhavli, Kundaim, and Dharbandora by improving road alignment.
“Traffic police are mostly seen issuing challans in the city, but they should also focus on regulating traffic on highways. Stray cattle and dogs are also contributing to accidents,” Sapre added.
