Odisha buses to be fitted with smart devices to reduce accidents: CM Mohan Majhi

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced on Saturday that smart devices will be installed in all buses plying in the state to improve road safety and reduce accidents.

Addressing the media and audience at an event to kickstart the National Road Safety Month in Bhubaneswar, the CM said that the state government will assist private bus owners in installing these devices which will help detect as well as prevent various cases of negligence and emergency including drunk driving and loss of consciousness.

Such smart devices can also analyze braking and detect loss of steering and other mechanical failures, which can be key elements in preventing casualties.

Expanding on the same, State Transport Secretary, Usha Padhi said that discussions regarding the manufacturer and procurement of these devices were ongoing with IIT Madras.

“These smart devices are capable of detecting various scenarios. They can follow the movement of the iris and alert the driver if they fall asleep while driving, a condition known as sleep hypnosis,” she said.

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Similarly, Debendra Sahu, the General Secretary of the Odisha State Bus Owners' Association lauded the move while emphasizing the need for such devices not only in buses but on all vehicles plying on the roads.

“We had already requested the state government for such devices. Not only will it spread awareness but also ensure the safety of drivers and passengers alike,” he added.

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Meanwhile, in the same event, CM Majhi also stated that the state government will recruit over 2,000 traffic police personnel, with an announcement already made to appoint 500 personnel this year, with a vision to streamline traffic and prevent accidents.