Škoda Auto Volkswagen India, in partnership with SaveLIFE Foundation, has completed a two-year Zero Fatality Corridor programme on the Agra–Etawah–Chakeri stretch of National Highway 19, Uttar Pradesh. The project marks a significant step towards safer roads under the ‘Surakshit Sadkein, Surakshit Bharat’ campaign.
Launched in November 2022, the initiative targeted one of India’s most accident-prone corridors. Using the 4Es approach – Engineering, Emergency Care, Enforcement, and Education – the programme reduced road crash deaths by 7.5% from the baseline year. This improvement benefits over 7.2 lakh commuters who use the route regularly.
The project team worked closely with the NHAI, Uttar Pradesh Police, Transport Department, State Road Safety Committee, and local authorities. Over 16,000 engineering hazards were identified, and more than 7,000 were rectified. Measures included crash barriers, speed calming devices, and better pedestrian infrastructure.
Training played a vital role. More than 300 first responders learned Basic Trauma Life Support, while 150 commercial drivers received anticipatory driving lessons. Public awareness grew through billboards, dhaba branding, and pamphlet distribution in Hindi and English.
This is SAVWIPL’s second major success after its Mumbai–Pune Highway project, which saw a 61% fall in fatalities. Officials say the NH-19 model offers a proven blueprint for replicating safety improvements across India’s highways.
