The Delhi High Court has rejected a plea seeking to allow two-wheelers on all national highways and expressways, emphasizing the importance of road safety and regulatory oversight. The court maintained that limiting two-wheeler access on certain highways is essential to ensure safety for all road users, given the high speeds and risk factors on these roads.
Background:
The plea was filed by a petitioner challenging restrictions on two-wheeler access to specific national highways and expressways. The petition argued that such restrictions unfairly limited the mobility of two-wheeler users and impeded their access to faster routes, causing inconvenience and increased travel times. The petitioner further contended that, with adequate safety measures, two-wheelers should be allowed access to these roads.
Court’s Rationale:
In its ruling, the Delhi High Court underscored the primary objective of highway and expressway restrictions, which is to prioritize safety by minimizing accident risks for all road users. The court noted that two-wheelers are more vulnerable in high-speed traffic environments, where larger vehicles dominate and higher speeds prevail. The bench stated that authorities have the responsibility to implement restrictions that reflect traffic safety, congestion concerns, and potential hazards specific to high-speed roadways.
Existing Measures:
Currently, certain national highways and expressways restrict two-wheelers and slow-moving vehicles to minimize potential accidents and streamline traffic. Regulatory bodies, including the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), assess and implement access limitations on specific roadways to ensure the safe and efficient movement of traffic, especially in high-density areas.
Conclusion:
The Delhi High Court’s decision highlights the judiciary’s focus on public safety over accessibility concerns on high-speed roads. By upholding restrictions on two-wheelers on specific national highways and expressways, the court affirms the necessity of regulatory measures tailored to road conditions and traffic risks. The ruling reinforces the principle that road safety is paramount and that limitations on specific vehicles are essential for reducing the likelihood of accidents on high-speed routes.