A high incidence of road traffic accidents persisted in 20 districts of Uzbekistan during the first six months of this year. This was announced during a video conference chaired by Shavkat Mirziyoyev on measures to improve road safety and infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion.
At the same time, the number of traffic accidents with serious consequences has significantly decreased in a number of districts. In particular, no fatalities were recorded in Muynak, Nukus, Takhtakupyr, Kanlykul, Yangiabad, Turakurgan, Akkurgan, Saykhunabad, Bulakbashi, Ulugnor, Bandikhan districts, as well as in the cities of Akhangaran, Shirin, Nurafshan, and Khanabad.
However, the situation remains unfavorable in Kiziltepa, Uchkрган, Pakhtachi, Chust, Taylak, Urgut, Shavat, Pastdargom, Yakkabag, Kushkupyr, Khanka, Denau, Peshkun, Beruni, Almazar, and Bektemir districts. Those responsible for the sector were reminded that the fact that the mortality rate in road accidents per 100,000 people in Uzbekistan is one of the lowest among CIS countries should not lead to complacency.
“Unfortunately, one person dies in every fourth accident, that is, an average of 6 people per day. This should cause serious concern for everyone,” said the President.
It was also noted that positive changes are observed where khokims and traffic safety officers jointly and seriously deal with road infrastructure. An example is the section of the D-105 ring road passing through the Chust district: after the installation of protective barriers over 6 km, there has not been a single fatal accident this year, while previously up to 10 people died annually on this section.
On behalf of the President, a study was conducted on the condition of roads of international and state importance. The study revealed a shortage of concrete and metal barriers on 1,557 km of roads, 967 km of sidewalks, and 38,000 road signs.
In this regard, the President announced the launch of the national program “Safe Road,” aimed at reducing accidents by improving road infrastructure. As part of the program, the Republican Fund “Safe Road and Safe Pedestrian” will be reorganized and transferred to the Government’s subordination. A separate branch of the fund will be created in each region.
It is projected that 400 billion soums will be allocated to the fund from various sources this year. In addition, 25 percent of the amount of fines received in the budget from photo and video radars will also be directed to the fund and its branches. Companies responsible for installing road signs, traffic lights, and road markings will be transferred to the regions’ jurisdiction.
It is noted that the fund’s activities will be transparent — it will include the heads of regional traffic safety departments and road services, as well as representatives of the public. The fund’s funds will primarily be directed to the arrangement of hazardous road sections: installation of dividers, road signs, lighting, organization of pedestrian crossings, and digitalization of intersections.