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State govt, Mercedes-Benz India tie up for road safety project

The ZFC project, launched in March this year, will operate till 2026 and seeks to bring down accident-related deaths on the expressway through a mix of engineering fixes, enforcement measures, emergency response systems and awareness campaigns.

ChandigarhMercedes-Benz India Private Limited, in its written reply, stated that the vehicle in question, manufactured/assembled by them, has undergone stringent quality checks at every stage of production and has been duly tested. (Source: Pexels)

The Maharashtra government has partnered with Mercedes-Benz India and the NGO SaveLIFE Foundation to implement a zero fatality corridor (ZFC) on the Samruddhi Mahamarg — the 701-km-long Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway.

Welcoming the initiative, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the project has the potential to become a national model. “Over 10 lakh vehicles use this expressway daily. Given the volume, road safety is of utmost importance. Mercedes-Benz India, a leader in automotive safety, has come forward to play a key role in this mission, and that is a very positive sign,” he said, addressing the MoU signing event between Mercedes-Benz India and Maharashtra government through Savelife foundation in Mumbai.

The ZFC project, launched in March this year, will operate till 2026 and seeks to bring down accident-related deaths on the expressway through a mix of engineering fixes, enforcement measures, emergency response systems and awareness campaigns.

Among the engineering solutions being implemented are improved signage, speed limit indicators, and “go slow” markings at accident-prone points. Speed detection cameras and Variable Speed Sign Boards (VASS) have also been installed at key locations. The expressway is now equipped with the VIDES system, which flags safety violations such as failure to wear seatbelts and lane indiscipline.

More than 70 police and enforcement personnel have received specialised training under the project. Additionally, coordination meetings between various departments — including the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the Highway Police, and the Health Department — are being held regularly to ensure smooth execution.

“This kind of multi-agency cooperation, backed by global expertise and local leadership, is crucial. It’s not just about one road — this is a model we intend to replicate across the state,” Fadnavis said.

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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