Good Samaritan Initiative Boosts Road Accident Aid

The Uttar Pradesh government launched a ‘Good Samaritan’ initiative in 2025. It aims to reward citizens who help road accident victims reach hospitals within the critical ‘golden hour’. This scheme is part of efforts to reduce the high number of road accident deaths in the state.

Background and Context

India recorded 1.6 lakh road accident deaths in 2023. Uttar Pradesh led with 22,532 fatalities in 23,771 accidents. This accounted for 14% of the national total. The state government introduced this reward scheme to encourage timely assistance to accident victims.

Definition of Good Samaritan

The Motor Vehicles Act 1988, defines a Good Samaritan as a person who helps accident victims in good faith without expecting rewards. This help may be medical or non-medical and includes transporting victims to hospitals. The initiative recognises such individuals as ‘Raah-Veer’ or ‘path heroes’.

Reward and Recognition

Each Raah-Veer receives a certificate and Rs 25,000 for helping critically injured victims. The scheme applies to accidents involving motor vehicles causing severe injuries or death during treatment. If multiple people help one victim, the reward is shared. If one person helps several victims in one accident, the reward remains fixed.

Verification and Implementation

Police verify the rescuer’s details with hospitals. An official acknowledgment is issued, including rescuer and victim information. This is reviewed by a district-level committee led by the district magistrate. The committee includes police and transport officials who approve the awards.

Impact and Expectations

Officials expect the scheme to motivate citizens to assist accident victims without fear. It aims to reduce hesitation in emergencies and increase survival rates. The initiative also promotes a culture of social responsibility and timely aid.

Role of Authorities

Transport Commissioner Kinjal Singh and regional officers emphasise transparency and fairness. Police and medical officers jointly verify claims. The scheme aligns with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways’ broader national framework, implemented through state governments.