Nagpur: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced an increase in the incentive for helping accident victims from ₹5,000 to ₹25,000, here on Saturday, January 11. Speaking at a road safety program held at Vanamati Hall in Nagpur, Gadkari emphasized the importance of the ‘Golden Hour’ after a road accident, during which timely help can save lives.

Gadkari shared the information during an interview with renowned Bollywood actor Anupam Kher at the event. He assured the public that individuals assisting accident victims will not face questioning from police or transport officials. Instead, they will be rewarded under the ‘Good Samaritan Act,’ which has been passed by Parliament.

Gadkari urged voluntary organizations and social workers to take the lead in raising awareness about road safety. He commended the efforts of Raju Mankar and Chandrashekhar Mohite for their exemplary work in the field of road safety.

Highlighting alarming statistics, Gadkari revealed that 10,000 students in India fall victim to accidents due to faulty traffic systems near schools and poorly designed intersections. Additionally, 30,000 lives are lost annually due to the absence of helmets.

The minister cited an example from Ajni in Nagpur, where road engineering improvements have resulted in zero accidents over the past 25 years, despite the area previously being a high-risk zone. He also applauded the efforts of Nagpur Rural Superintendent of Police Harsh Potdar and the organization Roadmark, which have repaired accident-prone spots, reducing highway accidents in Nagpur Rural by 48%.

During the program, school students posed questions on road safety, and Gadkari provided satisfactory answers to their concerns. The event was attended by Nagpur Traffic Police Commissioner Archit Chandak, officials from the State Transport Department, and representatives of various social organizations working in the field of road safety.