India to remove speed bumps from national highways

The National Highways Authority of India has launched an initiative to remove all speed bumps from national highways for hassle-free traffic movement, especially on toll booths.

The initiative comes after the successful implementation of FASTags on toll booths, making it possible for highway commuters to pay without cash.

Since 15 December 2019, approximately 75% of toll lanes at Indian toll plazas use FASTags for toll collection.

According to the authority, removal of the speed bumps will ensure obstacle-free travel for ambulances, elderly and unwell people who commute on national highways.

In a statement, the authority said: “Roads of different categories and under different situations are designed for designated speeds at which vehicles can travel with convenience and safety. At certain locations, control of speed becomes necessary to promote orderly traffic movement and improved safety.”

Speed bumps on the highways near the toll booths result in a significant amount of delays, vehicle damage and discomfort to travellers, as well as increased fuel consumption.

The initiative will improve the overall travel experience by saving time, money and providing smoother vehicle movements.

In 2017, it was revealed that around 10,000 people die every year in India because of speed bumps.

According to government data, 11,084 Indians died on the road in 2015 from accidents that took place solely due to the speed bumps.