Accidents on Mysuru-Bengaluru Expressway: Speed thrills but kills

Sir,

I would like to bring the readers’ attention to the news item titled ‘55 killed in 5 months in accidents on Mysuru-Bengaluru Expressway’ (SOM dated June 9, Page-4).

I would like to address the statement made in the last column of the article which suggests that “Unscientific construction and incorrect alignment at some stretches of the Expressway have resulted in fatal accidents.” I am sorry to mention that most of the fatalities have occurred grossly on account of reckless driving than a few inaccuracies that are manageable with cautious driving that I have mentioned in my previous articles.

In order to emphasise the importance of responsible driving and promote safety, I would like to reiterate the following observations:

The Expressway has been designed for a maximum speed limit of 100 kmph. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a speed of around 100 kmph. The lane width of 3.50 metres is suitable only for speeds up to 100 kmph.

Engaging in excessive acceleration, reaching speeds of 140-150 kmph, would require lane widths of 3.75 to 4.00 metres, which are not available on this Expressway.

Therefore, it is essential to acknowledge that any severe situations arising from careless driving should not be attributed to the road construction or alignments.

However, despite the aforementioned points, I still believe that greater attention should have been given to the designs (DPR) to ensure utmost safety. I have previously highlighted this matter extensively in my articles and letters.

I urge everyone to drive carefully, prioritise safety, remember that lives are precious, and to always keep in mind that excessive speed may provide momentary thrills but can ultimately lead to fatal consequences. Speed thrills but kills.

—V. N. Prasad, Road Designer and Project Management Consultant, Mysuru, 10.6.2023

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