PANAJI
The ground-breaking initiative, launched in 2021, is further set to streamline the handling of road accident cases in Goa. The Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD), a web-based IT system developed by Chennai IITians, will soon integrate with the State’s courts.
Currently, IRAD connects the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Public Works Department (PWD), Hospitals, Police Stations as well as Traffic and Transport Departments.
By adding Courts to this network, the system will facilitate the seamless online sharing of crucial documents like hurt certificates, which will expedite the legal process for accident-related cases.
“This integrated system will revolutionize accident response. A call to 112 helpline will activate a coordinated response from 108 Ambulance services,” Medical Superintendent of the Goa Medical College and Hospital Rajesh Patil told The Goan.
While PWD is meant for infrastructure changes post-accidents, if necessary; Traffic and Transport officials ensure their respective formalities. Now, the judiciary would be integrated for swift legal proceedings, strengthening of coordination, and immediate disposal of such cases.
“The inclusion of Courts as the sixth pillar of IRAD will considerably improve the handling of medico-legal accident cases, particularly at the police station level. The latest inclusion will soon happen,” Patil added.
Launched as part of the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways initiative, IRAD aims to identify the root causes of accidents, implement remedial measures and enhance overall road safety in Goa.
“The project is a comprehensive IT solution that enables various agencies to input accident details, including victim information, investigation reports, road engineering data, vehicle condition and precise location coordinates,” a traffic official explained.
At the time of the launch, the government official stated that the system’s advanced analytics and real-time data synchronization would provide valuable insights to stakeholders and facilitate efficient coordination between different departments. For instance, when the police register an accident, alerts will be sent to the Transport and NHAI via email and SMS.
The Transport Department’s Motor Vehicle Inspector will be tasked with inspecting the vehicle involved, while the PWD/NHAI’s engineers/experts will assess the road infrastructure.
