The Central Safety and Vigilance wing of North West Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), in coordination with police authorities, has identified 168 accident-prone ‘black spots’ across six revenue districts under its jurisdiction.
Of these, the highest number, 48 black spots, were found in the Belagavi and Chikodi divisions of Belagavi district. Survey findings show that 34 of the 48 spots fall under the Chikkodi division, while 14 are located in the Belagavi division. Officials attributed the high number in Chikkodi to its extensive network of narrow roads.
NWKRTC Belagavi divisional controller Kempanna Gudennavar told TOI that a separate divisional-level survey had identified 25 black spots within Belagavi division limits, whereas the central vigilance team flagged 14. “We are taking steps to implement corrective measures at these locations,” he said.
The report also pointed out nearly 50 black spots on National Highways within the corporation’s operational area, which includes Belagavi, Karwar, Gadag, Bagalkot, Dharwad and Haveri districts.
Ganesh Rathod, Chief Safety and Vigilance Officer of NWKRTC, said the identification was based on past accident data, driver feedback and reports from line-checking staff. “Addressing these spots will enhance safety not only for NWKRTC buses but for all road users,” he said.
He observed that even experienced drivers with strong safety records face difficulties due to poor road design, inadequate signage, and other infrastructural gaps.
Recommended measures include better signage, installation of reflective markers, improved lane segregation, solar lighting on vulnerable stretches and correction of engineering flaws.
Rathod added that PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi has shown keen interest in resolving the issue. One review meeting has already been conducted, and another is scheduled in Hubballi on February 25.
“Unless road deficiencies are addressed, placing the blame solely on drivers will not resolve the issue. Even a 25% reduction in accidents would be a significant achievement,” Rathod said.
