Western Express Die-Way: Mumbai's worst road is also its deadliest

Five youngsters died on the spot when the car they were travelling in crashed against a tree on the WEH on August 18

Mumbai's worst roads are also the most fatal ones. This should come as no surprise, but was finally confirmed during a recent survey of major thoroughfares in the city, when the Traffic Department identified 30 ‘black spots' that are in the worst condition and also witness the maximum number of deaths.

It is no coincidence that the average number of fatal accidents has risen by 70% on the pothole-ridden Western Express Highway

Bad roads have regularly been in the headlines for the past few months, particularly because of the hundreds of potholes that have both injured commuters and led to deadly accidents. Now, a study by the Crash Analysis Unit (CAU) of the Mumbai Traffic Department shows that bad roads have a direct relation to the number of road accidents and deaths.

Also Read: Mumbai Western Express smash-up leaves 3 cars damaged

These are some of the locations that witnessed a large number of accidents last year; figures indicate the number of mishaps

"Bad roads are the main reason behind the accidents in the city," said a senior officer from the traffic department, adding, "Potholes that are as much as a foot deep, and blind turns - these are the two main causes of accidents."

More deaths
It is no coincidence that the average number of fatal accidents has risen considerably on both the Western Express Highway and the Eastern Freeway, which have become infamous for potholes. As per the statistics available with mid-day, the Western Express Highway has reported 70% more deaths on average this year, as compared to the figures from last year.

On the Eastern Express Highway as well, 50% more lives were lost in the same period.

Black spots
Apart from the express highways, the CAU also surveyed arterial roads like the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, as well as link roads that serve the highways, and the results are startling. The department has already identified 30 ‘black spots' that are magnets for fatal accidents and need immediate correction (see map).

Sources in the traffic department revealed that on several occasions, they have complained to the BMC about the poor state of the highways and inner city roads. However, the issue continues to be neglected.

Read Story: Mumbai: Joyride ends in fatal accident for five friends

Our source from the Traffic department added, "A few months ago, our Crash Analysis Unit compiled all the data on accidents and found out that there are 30 fatal ‘black spots' in the city. We have informed BMC and PWD and all other concerned authorities to take action, but till now, there has been no reply."

"We have asked our officials to maintain surveillance at these spots, but that is not the solution," he added.

Road scam
The BMC itself is embroiled in controversy over the shoddy roads after the Rs 352-crore road scam was exposed. In the same scam, the Special Investigation Team formed by Mumbai Police has already arrested 26 accused, including two chief engineers and an executive engineer from the road department. Cops have now sought permission to arrest 16 more. The Bombay High Court has also slammed the civic body over the potholes leading to accidents and traffic jams across the city.

Cop speak
Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Milind Bharambe said, "If we analyse accidents in Mumbai, over-speeding and judgmental errors are major contributors. Also, there are many engineering shortcomings of the roads, which adds to the trouble. We can only ensure that accidents don't take place due to speeding or rash driving, and we are working day and night to do so."