Nagpur: Since the inauguration of the ambitious Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Samruddhi Mahamarg, connecting Nagpur and Shirdi, the expressway has been witnessing frequent accidents. Authorities concerned initiated an investigation to identify the causes, leading them to discover that most accidents were attributed to tyre bursts of vehicles travelling on the highway.
In response to this alarming trend, authorities have taken measures to address the issue by introducing a regular tyre-checking activity on the Samruddhi Mahamarg. A dedicated Tyre Checking Centre has been set up near the Toll Plaza at Nagpur and Shirdi, operated jointly by the Road Transport Department, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and CEAT Ltd. The first activity was conducted on Wednesday.
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Given the importance of ensuring vehicle safety while travelling on the Mahamarg, it is crucial for drivers to be aware of the quality and suitability of their tyres. Factors such as tyre quality, speed rating, and overall condition play a vital role in driving safely on the expressway. The Tyre Checking Centre educates vehicle users about the benefits of opting for nitrogen-filled tyres, maintaining proper air pressure, and selecting high-quality tyres.
At the Centre, operators conduct inspections of the valve pin and tire wear of vehicles traveling on the expressway. They utilize specialized equipment, including three machines named Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3. Step 1 assesses the speed ratings of the vehicle, Step 2 checks for tire wear and tear, and alerts drivers when a replacement is needed. The machine indicates the need for tire replacement when the tread pattern surface reaches the tread wear indicator level. It is recommended to perform regular tread wear checks every two to four months. However, before embarking on a long journey, drivers are strongly advised to inspect their tyres for any issues.
Step 3 of the checking process focuses on determining the correct air pressure for the tyres, providing guidance for appropriate inflation levels. By maintaining the recommended air pressure, drivers can enhance both safety and fuel efficiency.
R.T. Gite and Ravindra Bhuyar, both RTO officers, emphasized that it is important not to paint a negative picture of the Samruddhi Mahamarg solely based on the accident statistics. They acknowledged that accidents occur due to various interconnected reasons. However, they expressed confidence that the implementation of the tyre-checking centre will significantly contribute to preventing accidents on the Samruddhi Mahamarg.
The introduction of the Tyre Checking Centre on the Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Samruddhi Mahamarg demonstrates the authorities’ commitment to ensuring the safety of commuters. By promoting regular tyre maintenance and awareness, the initiative aims to mitigate accidents caused by tyre bursts and foster a safer travel experience on the expressway.
