Good Roads Can Increase Accident Rate: BJP MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy

HYDERABAD: BJP senior leader and Chevella MP Konda Vishweshwar Reddy has held the previous BRS government responsible for Monday’s tragic accident, where a tipper rammed a TGSRTC bus, resulting in 19 fatalities. Addressing a press conference at the BJP state office in Hyderabad, Vishweshwar Reddy alleged that the mishap was a direct result of poor planning and negligence during the BRS regime.

"If roads are bad, vehicles move slowly and the likelihood of accidents is reduced. However, when roads are good and have sharp turns, the chances of major accidents increase," he remarked. This statement highlights a paradoxical issue where improved road infrastructure can sometimes lead to more severe accidents due to increased speed and driver overconfidence.

Vishweshwar Reddy further criticized the delays in the completion of the Bijapur National Highway, which was announced in 2016. He alleged that the then BRS government failed to complete land acquisition, allegedly due to a focus on real estate interests. "The bus accident is a direct consequence of the BRS government’s negligence. It bears 100% responsibility," the MP stated, accusing the previous regime of prioritizing real estate gains over public safety.

He emphasized that he had written several letters to the previous BRS government, raising concerns about road safety. Now, Vishweshwar Reddy has requested the Union government to construct the highway in a straight alignment instead of multiple curves, which he believes will enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

The MP’s comments underscore the critical need for balanced road development that prioritizes both infrastructure improvement and public safety. It highlights the importance of thorough planning and execution, especially in regions with high traffic volume and potential hazards.