Expanding Highway Networks
The Road Transport Ministry is making significant strides in expanding the network of highways and expressways across the country. This expansion means that both small towns and big cities are now connected more efficiently than ever. With a total of 1,46,145 kilometers of national highways, traveling by road has become a popular choice for many. People are enjoying the freedom of taking long drives, covering distances of 400 to 500 kilometers in their own vehicles. Stopping along the way to explore and have fun makes the journey all the more enjoyable.
Introduction of Helipads
In an exciting development, the ministry has announced plans to build helipads along these national highways and expressways. What’s noteworthy is that these helipads will be accessible not just for VIPs but for everyday citizens as well. The idea behind this initiative is to provide quicker access to medical help for those injured in road accidents. Nitin Gadkari, the Road Transport and Highways Minister, highlighted that many accidents occur far from cities, often making it difficult for injured individuals to receive timely treatment. With helipads in place, emergency services can transport patients rapidly to hospitals, potentially saving lives.
Improving Emergency Response
Additionally, there are plans to construct helipads at major hospitals. This would allow for direct transport of accident victims from the scene to the hospital. The current situation often sees valuable time wasted in getting to the hospital once the injured reach the city, further delaying critical medical attention. By having a helipad at the hospital, medical teams can respond more swiftly, significantly increasing the chances of survival for those involved in serious accidents. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reduce the alarming statistics surrounding road accidents, as recent data shows that a staggering 1.68 lakh people lost their lives in road incidents last year.
