Date: January 08, 2025
Cashless Treatment for Road Accident Victims:
Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced a landmark initiative to provide cashless treatment for road accident victims across India. The central government is set to launch a revised scheme by March, ensuring accident victims receive financial assistance for medical care.
Key Features of the Scheme for Road Accident Victims:
Cashless Treatment Coverage
Under this scheme, victims of road accidents will be entitled to cashless treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh per accident per person, valid for a maximum of 7 days from the date of the accident. This initiative aims to ensure timely medical care, especially during the critical golden hour, when prompt treatment can save lives.
Nationwide Applicability
The scheme will cover all road accidents involving motor vehicles on any category of road, providing a comprehensive safety net for accident victims across the country.
Implementation and Technology Integration
National Health Authority’s Role
The National Health Authority (NHA) will oversee the implementation of the programme. It will collaborate with the police, hospitals, and state health agencies to streamline the process and ensure smooth execution.
IT Platform Integration
The programme will leverage an IT platform that integrates the e-Detailed Accident Report (eDAR) application of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) with the Transaction Management System of the NHA. This robust system will enable real-time reporting, monitoring, and processing of accident-related cases.
Pilot Programme and Expansion
On March 14, 2024, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways launched a pilot programme in Chandigarh to test cashless treatment for road accident victims. The success of the initiative led to its expansion to six states. The revised scheme now aims to scale this benefit nationwide, ensuring timely medical care and reducing fatalities caused by delays in treatment.
Additional Initiatives in the Transport Sector
Driver Training Institutes (DTIs)
The government launched a pan-India programme to establish Driver Training Institutes (DTIs). These institutes will provide incentives for setting up integrated infrastructure, including Automated Testing Stations (ATS).
Addressing Driver Fatigue
Acknowledging the role of driver fatigue in road crashes, the government is studying labour laws to formulate policies for fixing working hours for commercial drivers. Similar to regulations for pilots.
Driver Shortage
Minister Gadkari highlighted India’s shortage of 22 lakh drivers, stressing the need for immediate measures to address this gap.
Road Accident Victims: Conclusion
This innovative scheme for cashless treatment of road accident victims underscores the government’s commitment to improving road safety and providing timely medical care. Coupled with other initiatives like Driver Training Institutes and policies to regulate working hours for drivers. These measures aim to transform India’s road transport sector for the better.