A tragic accident in Punjab has claimed the lives of three cyclists after they were struck by an 18-wheel truck. The incident is the latest in a string of road fatalities that have put Punjab's road safety record under intense scrutiny.

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All three cyclists were pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, including potential negligence or mechanical failure. The driver of the truck has been taken into custody, and charges are pending.

This incident has amplified concerns regarding road safety in Punjab, which already has a disturbing record. Recent data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) indicates that Punjab ranks among the top states in India for road accident fatalities. In 2023, the state recorded a staggering 4,906 deaths from 6,276 accidents, resulting in a 78% fatality rate. This means that approximately eight out of every ten road accidents in Punjab result in a loss of life. Within the state, Ludhiana has emerged as one of the deadliest cities in India for road accidents. In 2023, Ludhiana reported 402 fatalities out of 504 accidents, an alarming 80% fatality rate.

Road safety experts and advocates are calling for immediate action to address the crisis. Kamal Soi, an international road safety expert and spokesperson for BJP Punjab, has been particularly vocal, describing the situation as a "massacre on the roads of Punjab". He has urged the government to declare a "Road Safety Emergency" and implement a comprehensive crash-reduction mission.

Identified shortcomings that contribute to the high fatality rate include:

• Lack of strict enforcement against overspeeding, drunk driving, and rash driving.
• Neglected black spots, blind curves, and unsafe junctions.
• Poor trauma care and emergency response.
• Corruption and mismanagement in Transport and Traffic Departments.

The Punjab government has initiated some measures to improve road safety, including the establishment of a Road Safety Force, elimination and identification of black spots, and the "Farishtey Punjab" scheme to provide free treatment to road accident victims. However, critics argue that these efforts are insufficient and that a more comprehensive and coordinated approach is needed.

The tragic loss of three cyclists serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize road safety in Punjab and implement effective measures to prevent future tragedies.