Odisha to Observe ‘Zero Fatality Fortnight’ from Nov 16–30

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has announced the observance of ‘Zero Fatality Fortnight’ from November 16 to 30, with the objective of achieving zero road accident deaths through strict enforcement, public awareness, and coordinated efforts across departments.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Commerce and Transport Department, will be implemented in collaboration with district administrations, police, Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), and other concerned agencies. The campaign will focus on the four pillars of road safety — enforcement, engineering, education, and emergency care.

During the fortnight, a zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against major traffic violations such as over-speeding, drunk driving, mobile phone use while driving, and helmet or seat-belt violations. Intensive checking will be conducted across highways, markets, school zones, and other high-traffic areas.

District authorities have been instructed to pay special attention to identified black spots, ensuring immediate road repairs, installation of warning signage, and correction of design flaws in coordination with engineering agencies.

In addition to enforcement, large-scale public awareness campaigns will be organised to promote safe driving practices. Government and private bodies will work together to spread the message that every life matters, while citizens will be encouraged to act as Good Samaritans and assist accident victims.

Officials noted that earlier observances of Zero Fatality Week had led to a measurable reduction in road deaths across the state. Building on that success, the programme has now been extended to a fortnight.

“Reducing road accidents is a key part of the state’s vision for a developed Odisha. The Chief Minister’s message — ‘Come Home Safe’ — continues to inspire people. Every life is precious, and road safety is a shared responsibility,” the Transport Department said in a statement.