The Curious Case of Poor Highway Designs in India: A Tale of Corruption and Accidents

India's road infrastructure has long been criticized for its poor design and frequent accidents, a stark contrast to the well-designed highways found in other developed countries like the United States (US). This article delves into the reasons behind such poor highway designs in India, highlighting a deep-rooted issue of corruption and the unintended consequences for public safety.

Why Do Indian Highways Have Intersections?

India's highway design is a perplexing phenomenon. Unlike the US where highways are designed with minimal intersections, typically only allowing mergers, Indian highways are riddled with intersections. This design choice contributes to a higher incidence of accidents, posing a significant threat to public safety.

The primary reason for these intersections lies in a flawed governmental system that prioritizes graft over the welfare of its citizens. The government, particularly the Public Works Department (PWD), has a vested interest in continuous highway construction and repair, which translates into substantial kickbacks for contractors. This deplorable practice not only undermines public trust but also results in substandard road quality and frequent malfunctions.

Corruption and the Road to Wealth

The system of corruption in India's public works sector is a well-oiled machine, designed to line the pockets of government servants and contractors at the expense of public safety. The PWD, being one of the most lucrative departments, attracts intense competition among civil servants vying to secure postings. Many individuals are willing to sacrifice ethics and public service for financial gain, making the road to wealth through public works a highly tempting and easily navigable path.

A staggering number of civil servants and contractors collude to ensure that roadwork is continuous, allowing for repeated profiteering. This cycle of corruption, where contracts are awarded through private means and kickbacks are expected, makes it easy for individuals to amass wealth. It also perpetuates a culture of regulatory negligence and compromised integrity.

The Human Cost of Poor Highway Design

The consequences of poor highway design in India extend far beyond economic malfeasance. Increased intersections on highways result in higher accident rates, leading to countless injuries and fatalities. The lives of countless individuals are put at risk due to a system that prioritizes profitability over public safety.

When roads are designed with unnecessary intersections, they create bottlenecks, reduce traffic flow, and increase the likelihood of collisions. These factors contribute significantly to a high number of traffic accidents, which not only result in loss of life but also impose an immense burden on the healthcare system and society at large.

Conclusions: A Call for Reform

The state of Indian highways serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of unchecked corruption and regulatory failure. The government's focus on profiteering from contracts rather than prioritizing public safety is a systemic issue that requires urgent attention. To address this, it is imperative to implement reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and ethical practices in the public works sector.

Furthermore, there is a need for lawmakers and policymakers to collaborate with international experts to learn from best practices in road design from countries like the US, where well-maintained and efficient highways contribute to safer and more efficient transportation systems.

Ultimately, restoring public trust and ensuring safe and efficient transportation is critical to the development and well-being of India's citizens. It is time for a new approach to highway design that places the welfare of the public above all else.