Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has stressed the importance of leveraging technology to enhance road safety in the state. While laying the foundation stone for the new Transport Commissioner's Office, "Parivahan Bhavan," in Worli, Mumbai, Fadnavis emphasized the need for disciplined driving and highlighted the role of the Motor Transport Department in reducing road accidents.

The upcoming "Parivahan Bhavan" will serve as a modern administrative hub, featuring a 12,800 sq. meter campus with a state-of-the-art, four-story underground parking facility. The facility will accommodate 150 four-wheelers and is expected to be completed within two and a half years.

Fadnavis reiterated the importance of disciplined driving and advocated for the adoption of automated vehicle inspection centers, automated driving test centers, and an integrated traffic management system to enhance road safety. Additionally, he called for a comprehensive parking policy, urging citizens to ensure adequate parking facilities before purchasing vehicles. He also instructed the transport department to submit proposals for the new policy.

In another significant move, Fadnavis inaugurated the transport department's "faceless service" initiative, allowing citizens to access services online without physically visiting transport offices. He also announced plans to remove state border check posts, which have become less relevant following GST implementation.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlighted the government's plan to establish a welfare board for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers in the unorganized sector. At the event, Fadnavis also honored five senior drivers for their service.

The new Transport Commissioner's Office marks a significant milestone for the department, which has been operating from rented premises for 85 years. "With the construction of "Parivahan Bhavan," the Maharashtra government aims to enhance road safety, streamline transport services, and improve the department's overall efficiency" said an official.