In a disturbing trend, 20 deaths in 2 months have occurred on the Delhi-Gurgaon and Dwarka expressways despite Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed to improve safety. Between July and August, 42 accidents happened on the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway alone, killing 20 people. In comparison, May and June recorded 36 accidents that claimed 18 lives. On the Dwarka Expressway, accidents stayed at seven in both periods, but fatalities rose from two to five.
During this time, authorities issued 27,637 challans on these roads. Driving without seat belts topped the list with 11,448 violations. Speeding added 5,303 cases, lane violations 4,235, unauthorized entry of vehicles 2,354, riding without helmets 3,896, triple riding 378, and wrong-side driving 23.
Experts stress that ANPR cameras fail to capture reckless driving, poor lane discipline, or nighttime speeding. Waterlogging during the monsoon also creates hazards, proving that technology alone cannot guarantee safety.
From January to August this year, the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway recorded 153 accidents, killing 79 people and injuring 111 others. The Dwarka Expressway had 32 accidents, which left 15 dead and 18 injured. These figures show the urgent need for stronger measures beyond automated fines.
Authorities now plan new steps to improve safety. Proposals include better road designs to slow traffic, stronger street lighting, more patrols, and strict checks on banned two- and three-wheelers. Experts advise combining ANPR technology with speed radars, nighttime policing, and dedicated traffic teams. Public awareness campaigns, they add, can help change driver behavior.
Ultimately, road safety requires more than technology. Real progress will come from strict monitoring, stronger infrastructure, and disciplined driving. The tragic toll of 20 deaths in 2 months highlights the urgent need for action before more lives are lost.
