The Maharashtra government has partnered with Mercedes-Benz India and the SaveLIFE Foundation to launch the “Zero Fatality Corridor” (ZFC) project on the 701-km Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway. The project aims to reduce accident-related deaths to zero by 2026 by focusing on the “four Es” of road safety: Engineering, Enforcement, Emergency Care, and Education. The initiative is supported by key agencies, including the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, highway police, and the health department.
Since its launch in March 2025, the project has already shown significant impact, with fatalities on the expressway dropping by 29% from 151 deaths in 2023 to 107 in early 2024. The project has identified “High Fatality Zones” that account for nearly 39% of all fatalities, enabling targeted interventions. Key safety upgrades include the installation of speed detection cameras, reflective signage, lane guidance, and speed awareness systems.
The project has also strengthened emergency care with upgraded facilities at hospitals and Basic Trauma Life Support training for first responders. Public awareness campaigns are being run on social media platforms to promote safe driving habits. Authorities are confident that this data-driven, collaborative approach will help achieve zero fatalities by 2026.
The Samruddhi model demonstrates how strategic partnerships, community awareness, and technology can combine to make Indian roads safer. The project is not just about reducing numbers, but about saving lives. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the partnership, calling it a major step towards safer travel and a national benchmark for road safety.
The ZFC project is a pioneering initiative that aims to turn the high-speed expressway into a national model for road safety. With the support of key agencies and stakeholders, the project is on track to achieve its ambitious goal of zero fatalities by 2026. The project’s success can be replicated on other high-risk corridors across Maharashtra, making Indian roads significantly safer. The partnership between the Maharashtra government, Mercedes-Benz India, and the SaveLIFE Foundation is a shining example of how collaborative efforts can lead to positive change and save lives.