Nagpur: In a path-breaking and result-oriented initiative aimed at transforming road safety in the city, Nagpur City Police, under the visionary leadership of Commissioner of Police Shri Ravinder Singal and Joint Commissioner of Police Shri Navinchandra Reddy, launched “Operation U-Turn” on 10th July 2025. This targeted operation was designed to curb life-threatening traffic violations such as drunk driving, wrong-side driving, helmetless riding, and other forms of rash and negligent driving that have long endangered lives on city roads.
The results, after just 21 days of sustained enforcement and awareness campaigns, have been extraordinary. According to data compiled and analysed by the Traffic Branch of Nagpur Police, the number of fatal road accident deaths in the city has dropped from 40 in July 2024 to just 15 in July 2025, reflecting a massive 62.5% reduction. Furthermore, the number of seriously injured persons in road accidents has declined from 13 to only 2, registering an unprecedented 84.5% decrease. These outcomes underline a significant shift in public behaviour and reflect the effectiveness of focused leadership, community engagement, and strict yet compassionate enforcement.
The success of Operation U-Turn is the result of a comprehensive, multi-pronged strategy. It involved round-the-clock deployment of dedicated traffic teams at accident-prone zones, zero-tolerance action against helmetless and drunk driving through the use of breath analyzers and real-time surveillance, and technology-driven monitoring with body cams, dashcams, and AI-powered enforcement tools. Mass public awareness campaigns were conducted across schools, colleges, citizen forums, and social media to instil the message of safe and responsible driving. In addition, collaboration with NGOs, hospitals, and civil society groups helped spread awareness of the human cost of reckless driving. Special weekend drives and night patrolling ensured round-the-clock vigilance during peak-risk hours.
A key pillar in the implementation and day-to-day execution of Operation U-Turn has been DCP Traffic, Shri Lohit Matani, whose strategic leadership, tireless coordination, and on-ground supervision played a vital role in the success of the initiative. His meticulous planning, use of data analytics to identify hotspots, and ability to inspire his team to work relentlessly have been instrumental in achieving these life-saving outcomes. DCP Matani ensured that enforcement was not merely punitive but also educative, reinforcing the idea that road safety begins with individual accountability.
Speaking on the initiative, Commissioner of Police Dr. Ravinder Singal said,
“Road safety is not just about rules; it’s about responsibility. Operation U-Turn is our heartfelt effort to ensure that no family loses a loved one due to avoidable road accidents. This initiative has shown that policing, when rooted in purpose and backed by public cooperation, can bring real change. This is just the beginning.”
Joint Commissioner Shri Navinchandra Reddy added,
“Our teams have worked with incredible dedication, round the clock. From strict enforcement to soft policing through awareness, this operation has created a visible impact. The change we’re seeing is not just in numbers, but in mindset.”
The success of Operation U-Turn is a source of pride for Nagpur Police and an inspiration to law enforcement agencies across the country. It demonstrates how visionary leadership, data-driven policing, committed field personnel, and community participation can together transform the road safety landscape. Nagpur Police urges other cities and state forces to study and replicate this model, adapting it to their local challenges and priorities. The journey toward a safer and more disciplined India begins with local action and collective will.
As Nagpur continues its progress toward becoming one of the safest cities in the country, the Police Department reaffirms its commitment to public welfare, proactive policing, and transformative governance. Operation U-Turn stands as a shining example of how focused efforts, compassionate enforcement, and community engagement can save lives and inspire a nationwide movement for road safety.
“One decision can save a life. One initiative can change a city. Operation U-Turn is that change.”
