RoadSafety – Delhi Launches Cash Reward for Accident Helpers

RoadSafety –  The Delhi government has rolled out a financial incentive programme aimed at encouraging citizens to assist victims of serious road accidents without hesitation. Under the newly adopted Rah-Veer scheme, individuals who help transport critically injured accident victims to a hospital within the crucial golden hour will receive a cash reward of Rs 25,000 along with a certificate of recognition.

Government Push to Encourage Public Support

Announcing the decision on Monday, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said the initiative is designed to strengthen humanitarian response across the national capital. She emphasised that many lives can be saved if bystanders step forward quickly during emergencies.

According to the Chief Minister, the scheme is intended to build confidence among residents so they can act without fear when confronted with accident situations. By combining legal safeguards with financial recognition, the government hopes to foster a culture of responsibility and compassion on Delhi’s roads.

Focus on the Golden Hour

The core objective of the Rah-Veer scheme is to ensure that severely injured road accident victims receive medical care within the first hour of trauma, widely known as the golden hour. Medical experts consider this window critical for preventing fatalities and limiting long-term complications.

Delhi witnesses heavy traffic movement daily, with thousands of vehicles on its roads at any given time. Authorities believe that faster intervention by members of the public could significantly reduce the number of deaths resulting from road accidents. Prompt transportation to the nearest hospital or trauma centre often determines whether a victim survives.

Addressing Fear of Legal Complications

Officials acknowledged that hesitation among bystanders has long been a barrier to timely assistance. Concerns about police questioning, court appearances, or becoming entangled in legal formalities often discourage people from intervening.

The new scheme seeks to address these fears by aligning with existing legal protections for Good Samaritans. Individuals who voluntarily help accident victims are shielded from unnecessary legal procedures, and their involvement remains limited to providing essential assistance. With the added provision of a monetary reward, authorities expect more citizens to take proactive steps during emergencies.

Chief Minister Gupta noted that in a densely populated metropolis like Delhi, even a few minutes can make a life-saving difference. She expressed confidence that the financial incentive, coupled with formal recognition, would motivate greater participation from the public.

Link to National Good Samaritan Provisions

The Rah-Veer initiative operates in line with the Good Samaritan Rules framed under the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019. These rules offer legal protection to individuals who assist injured persons in road accidents, ensuring they are not subjected to harassment or prolonged legal obligations.

The Central government has further strengthened this framework by introducing financial incentives to complement the legal safeguards. Delhi’s decision to implement the scheme locally marks a significant step in expanding its reach within the capital.

Reward Structure and Eligibility

Under the guidelines, any person who ensures that a seriously injured accident victim is admitted to a hospital or trauma facility within the golden hour will qualify for a reward of Rs 25,000. However, even if multiple individuals are rescued in a single accident, the total reward will be capped at Rs 25,000 per incident.

In addition to the immediate cash benefit, ten individuals demonstrating exceptional service under the Rah-Veer scheme will be selected each year for a national-level award carrying a prize of Rs 1 lakh.

Officials believe that the programme not only recognises civic courage but also strengthens the broader road safety framework in Delhi. By encouraging timely intervention and reinforcing legal assurance, the government aims to create an environment where helping accident victims becomes a natural and supported act.