Right to Safe Travel

News: The Supreme Court highlighted the Right to Safe Travel while issuing a 13-point directive after two road accidents in November 2025 caused 34 deaths.

About Right to Safe Travel

• Right to Safe Travel means that commuters should be able to use roads without facing avoidable dangers caused by unsafe conditions or poor management.
• Constitutional mandate:
  • Article 21 and Safety: Article 21 guarantees protection of life and personal liberty, which also includes the safety of road users.
  • Positive Duty of State: The State has a duty to ensure a safe environment where human life is protected and valued at all times.
• Key Highlights of the Supreme Court Ruling:
  • Accountability of Agencies: The Court criticized road agencies like National Highways Authority of India and state PWDs for administrative lapses and infrastructural gaps.
  • Right to Life Interpretation: The Court stated that even one avoidable death reflects failure of the State’s protective role.
  • Use of Constitutional Power: The Court exercised its extraordinary powers under Article 142 to address the issue effectively.
  • Concern on Road Practices: It highlighted dangers like illegal parking, black spots, and roadside dhabas causing accidents.
• Supreme Court Directions:
  • Restriction on Parking: No heavy or commercial vehicle shall park on highways except at designated areas.
  • Technology Use: Authorities must use Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) for tracking vehicles and integrating alerts with e-Challan systems.
  • Removal of Illegal Structures: Unauthorized dhabas and commercial structures within highway limits must be demolished.
  • Land Use Control: States must restrict land use changes within specified distances from highways.
  • Highway Monitoring: Dedicated surveillance teams must ensure round-the-clock monitoring.
  • Emergency and Safety Measures: Deployment of ambulances, cranes, truck lay-byes, and installation of lighting, cameras, and warning signs must be ensured.