Reviewing expressway safety with officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the transport department and the police, Adityanath ordered intensified patrolling, field inspections and the deployment of special teams at all identified accident-prone black spots. He also directed the installation of reflectors, improved lighting and the round-the-clock availability of cranes and ambulances on expressways.
“Toll plazas must actively warn drivers about fog conditions through public address systems, and strict action should be taken against overspeeding,” the Chief Minister said, stressing that enforcement could not be relaxed during poor visibility.
Motorists were advised to follow safety protocols, including using fog lights, keeping headlights on low beam, maintaining safe distances, avoiding overtaking and lane changes, and installing reflector tape on vehicles. District magistrates, police commissioners, inspectors general and traffic units have been instructed to personally monitor compliance.
The Chief Minister also issued directions to ensure welfare measures during the ongoing cold wave. Street lighting is to be checked continuously, homeless persons shifted to shelters, and arrangements for blankets, heaters and bonfires ensured. Special instructions were issued to protect livestock by providing warmth in cowsheds.
The crackdown follows Tuesday’s catastrophic accident on the Yamuna Expressway near Mathura’s Baldeo area, where eight buses and several cars collided in dense fog, triggering a fire. Thirteen people were burnt to death and over 70 injured. A magisterial inquiry has been ordered.
Officials said fog-related accidents have surged across Uttar Pradesh over the past four days, with more than 30 incidents and 28 deaths reported. With visibility dropping to near zero in several districts, authorities said enforcement and preparedness would remain on high alert in the coming days.
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