Bhubaneswar, Nov 13: In a bid to reduce road accidents and fatalities, the Odisha government has announced the observance of Zero Fatality Fortnight across the state from November 16 to 30, 2025, officials said on Thursday.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Commerce and Transport Department, follows the successful observance of Zero Accident Day earlier this year.

Strict Enforcement

During the fortnight, authorities will adopt a zero-tolerance policy against traffic rule violations. District administrations, police, and other departments will work in coordination with Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) to intensify enforcement. Special teams will be deployed at traffic junctions, educational institutions, shopping malls, and crowded marketplaces to check reckless driving and ensure compliance with the Motor Vehicles Act.

Engineering & Awareness

The programme will focus on the four ‘Es’—Enforcement, Engineering, Education, and Emergency Care. Accident-prone roads will be closely monitored, with engineering agencies instructed to rectify defects, install proper signage, and improve road safety infrastructure. Alongside enforcement, awareness campaigns will be conducted to educate the public on the importance of following traffic rules. Both government and private institutions will participate in spreading road safety messages.

Emergency Response

The initiative also emphasizes quick assistance to accident victims. Citizens will be encouraged to extend immediate help to save lives. The government aims to instill a sense of collective responsibility, urging people to treat road safety as a shared duty.

Also Read: CM Majhi Launches “Zero Accident Day” Campaign In Keonjhar

Broader Goal

Earlier, the programme was scheduled from November 1 to 15, but was postponed due to Cyclone Montha. Past observances of Zero Fatality Week had shown a significant reduction in accident deaths, prompting the government to expand the campaign to a fortnight. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has appealed to citizens with the message: “Come Home Safe.”

The government has reiterated that every life is precious, and even a single death is too many. The fortnight-long campaign is expected to strengthen Odisha’s vision of building a safer and more developed state.