Mumbai-Ahmedabad Highway: Fatal Dahanu Accident Sparks Safety Concerns as 70 Crashes, 27 Deaths Reported in 4 Months Across 19 Black Spots

A horrific accident near Dhanivari village, close to Dahanu on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway, has shocked Maharashtra and once again raised serious concerns about road safety on one of the state’s busiest routes. The tragic crash claimed the lives of 13 passengers, while more than 15 others sustained severe injuries. Following the incident, questions are being raised over the repeated negligence in implementing safety measures on the highway despite several accidents occurring over the past few months. Angry commuters and local residents have criticised the authorities for failing to address long-pending infrastructure and traffic safety issues, which they believe continue to put thousands of daily travellers at risk.

The Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway serves as a crucial transport corridor connecting Vasai East with Vasai-Virar, Palghar, Mumbai, Thane, Mira-Bhayandar, and parts of Gujarat. Traffic movement on this stretch has increased significantly over the years due to rapid urban growth and commercial activity. However, despite the rising number of vehicles, authorities have allegedly failed to strengthen safety systems and road infrastructure proportionately. Although the highway has been concretised and widened in several sections, commuters claim that important technical shortcomings remain unresolved. Many passengers and motorists have pointed out that the condition of safety arrangements continues to be inadequate for handling the heavy daily traffic on the highway.

Several major flaws on the highway have become a cause of concern for regular travellers. In many places, road dividers are either damaged or insufficient, increasing the chances of collisions. Motorists also complain about the absence of proper street lighting at night, making visibility difficult for drivers. Though protective fencing has been installed at select locations, heavy vehicles are often found parked directly on the main carriageway, creating dangerous obstacles. Authorities are also being criticised for failing to effectively control speeding vehicles. Due to poor monitoring systems, drivers frequently lose control, leading to serious accidents. Passengers have further expressed concern over ongoing drainage construction work, alleging that no warning signs or barricades have been placed near work zones.

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The alarming rise in accidents on the Dahisar to Shirsad stretch of the highway has intensified public concern. Within the 31-kilometre section, around 70 accidents have reportedly occurred during the past four months alone. These incidents have resulted in the deaths of 27 people, while at least 39 others suffered serious injuries. The repeated accidents have triggered fear among commuters who regularly use the route for work and travel. Citizens claim that despite several fatal incidents, long-term corrective action remains missing. Residents and motorists are now demanding urgent intervention from the authorities to improve road conditions and implement effective traffic management measures before more lives are lost on the highway.

Officials have already identified 19 accident-prone locations between the Dahisar toll naka and Shirsad Phata. The traffic department had previously written to the highway authority requesting immediate corrective measures in these black spots. However, traffic police officials stated that the required improvements are still pending, allowing dangerous conditions to continue. Citizens have also demanded strict action against vehicles travelling on the wrong side of the highway. According to locals, trucks carrying soil and RMC material are frequently seen speeding in the opposite direction, leading to several accidents. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Ashok Virkar said authorities have increased night patrolling and initiated action against illegal parking and wrong-side driving while urging motorists to follow traffic rules strictly.