New Delhi: The Union government has proposed that the compensation for the families of people killed in hit-and-run road accidents be increased to Rs 2 lakh. It is currently Rs 25,000. If the victim is suffering from serious injuries is suggested to be compensated with Rs 50,000.
In 2019 alone, the official data has recorded 4,49,002 road accidents and 1,51,113 deaths. 536 persons were killed and 1,655 persons were injured in hit-and-run accidents in Delhi alone, said the Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari told the RajyaSabha.
The road transport and highways ministry, on August 2, proposed a scheme to enhance the compensation amount for hit-and-run road accident victims. The new scheme will supersede the earlier Solatium Scheme, 1989.
The Scheme for Compensation of Hit and Run Accident Victims seeks to enhance "compensation (from Rs 12,500 to Rs 50,000 for grievous hurt and from Rs 25,000 to Rs 2,00,000 for death)," said the official statement. The centre will be setting up a Motor Vehicles Accident Fund.
The ministry has also proposed a Detailed Accident Report (DAR) and its reporting along with timelines for different stakeholders for quick settlements of claims. Investigation of the case will also have to be completed by the police within 60 days of the accident.