India’s road safety data shows it is grappling with one of the highest road crash deaths in the world – with close to 1,70,000 traffic fatalities in 2022. Uttar Pradesh topped the list of states with most number of fatalities (22,595) and Unnao was marked as one of its deadliest districts (510 deaths).

To advance road safety measures in Unnao, SaveLIFE Foundation in partnership with Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) conducted a training workshop on aspects of road safety and blackspot treatment for 50 PWD engineers recently. The training was a part of SaveLIFE’s Zero-Fatality District programme, currently underway in Unnao and 17 other districts across India. The objective of the workshop was to equip participants with hands-on problem solving techniques on improving road engineering issues. A team of SaveLIFE Foundation experts also discussed the findings of a comprehensive road safety audit undertaken in Unnao.

District magistrate, Unnao, Gaurang Rathi, said, “The workshop is an opportunity for PWD engineers in Unnao to learn the best practices in road safety.” He also urged the PWD engineers to take ownership on enhancing road safety, and make Unnao a role model for other districts in Uttar Pradesh. “Saving lives of people in Unnao is of prime importance to the district administration and all efforts will be made to ensure that,” he said.

Roshan Jose, associate director, projects, SaveLIFE Foundation, said, “This workshop is an effort to increase the institutional capacity of PWD engineers in the district on ways to improve road infrastructure and safety measures.” “Zero Fatality model has the potential to impact thousands of beneficiaries for a long period of time,” said Yogesh Mishra, executive director, head of supply chain, HUL.