Gurugram: To curb the rising number of road fatalities in Gurugram, the city’s traffic police, in collaboration with Google, have begun displaying speed limits and accident-prone zones on Google Maps across 129 city roads starting Thursday.

The feature, officially launched by the traffic police, will alert motorists in real time about permissible speed limits and high-risk stretches. Officials said the initiative aims to reduce sudden lane changes and speeding — two major causes of fatal crashes in the city.

Dr Rajesh Mohan, deputy commissioner of police (traffic), said the project was designed to make motorists more mindful of their responsibilities on the road.

“Many accidents occur because drivers speed or change lanes recklessly. With these alerts, commuters will get real-time reminders to slow down and drive safely,” he said.

Calling the partnership with Google a “proactive step” in traffic enforcement, Dr Mohan added, “A driver moving at 30 kmph in a congested zone has a far higher chance of surviving a crash. This system will help prevent accidents before they happen.”

The initiative follows alarming data showing 345 deaths and over 580 injuries in road accidents across Gurugram so far this year.

A senior police officer said high-risk locations such as NH-48, Dwarka Expressway, Sohna Road, and Golf Course Extension Road will now feature virtual caution markers on Google Maps.

“We are creating a virtual warning system for motorists. Alongside Google integration, we’re enhancing enforcement with ANPR cameras, drones, and digital challans,” the officer said.

According to police data, 50 accidents this year occurred on expressways, including NH-48, Dwarka Expressway, and the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway. In 2024, Gurugram recorded 448 deaths and over 1,000 accidents, making it one of Haryana’s most accident-prone districts.

Residents have welcomed the move but emphasized that awareness and strict enforcement must go together.

Last month, five motorists were booked for rash driving and abrupt lane changes along NH-48. Their vehicles were seized, and FIRs were filed under Section 285 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for causing danger and obstruction on public roads.

“Traffic discipline isn’t possible through policing alone. It requires awareness, accountability, and participation. Our goal is to save lives, not just issue fines,” a commuter said.

The Gurugram traffic police plan to expand the digital alert feature to over 200 roads by early next year, covering all major junctions and arterial routes. “Technology can’t replace responsible driving,” Dr Mohan said, “but it can certainly guide it,” an officer added.