Samruddhi Expressway: 405 Deaths in 2 Years; Govt Blames Driver, Plans Facilities

• MLA Milind Narvekar raised concerns in the winter session about the increasing number of accidents on the Samruddhi Mahamarg.
• The Chief Minister's written response stated 425 accidents occurred between Oct 2023 and Oct 2025, with 288 being fatal, resulting in 405 deaths.
• Key causes identified include speeding, driver fatigue (Road Hypnosis), tire bursts, unsafe distance, wrong overtaking, and lane indiscipline.
• To mitigate accidents, 22 of 29 planned highway facilities (fuel, snacks, restrooms) are operational, with 420 FRP restrooms at 21 locations and 7 temporary hotels.

Why It Matters: Rising deaths on Samruddhi Mahamarg demand immediate safety improvements for commuters.