The state transport department, in partnership with Bengaluru City Police, kicked off Safethon 2025 at Kanteerava Stadium on Saturday to highlight the urgency of road safety.

Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy, speaking at the gathering, emphasized India’s alarming rate of road mishaps and fatalities. He reiterated the ambitious target of cutting road accidents by 50% by 2030 and appealed for public support. Each year, India witnesses around 4.5 lakh traffic collisions, leading to 1.5 lakh deaths.

Karnataka alone reports nearly 33,000 accidents annually, causing 12,000 fatalities and critically injuring over 50,000 individuals. The minister stressed that both citizens and authorities share the responsibility of making roads safer.

To enhance road safety, the Karnataka State Road Safety Authority has introduced automated driving test tracks across 42 RTOs and set up vehicle testing stations in every district. Additionally, public transport vehicles are now equipped with GPS tracking and emergency buttons. The High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) system has also been implemented.

Smart enforcement systems now detect violations and issue e-challans, while transport vehicles must carry retroreflective tape and rear marking plates.

The event featured a motorcycle rally, cycle ride, and run, attended by Bengaluru Police Commissioner B Dayananda, senior officials, and noted Kannada actor Vijay Raghavendra.