Patna: The rural works department has begun a major programme to improve safety and navigation on village roads, as the state government seeks to make travel in remote areas safer and more reliable.
After connecting far-flung villages with all-weather paved roads, authorities say the next phase is focused on reducing accidents and upgrading safety standards through the installation of road furniture, including traffic signs, markers and other essential roadside infrastructure.
The department said uninterrupted movement and road safety in rural areas remain its highest priorities. Measures now underway include the placement of retro-reflective signs, village name boards and kilometre stones to help drivers travel more easily, particularly at night or during poor weather.
Officials said 24,859 locations had been identified for the installation of retro-reflective signs aimed at minimising accident risks and improving visibility on rural routes. Of those, 21,536 locations have already been fitted with the new signage.
Retro-reflective signs are designed to reflect vehicle headlights, making them more visible in darkness and adverse conditions. Authorities believe the initiative will help reduce collisions while improving access to villages across the state.
The programme forms part of broader efforts to strengthen rural infrastructure in Bihar, where road connectivity has been central to economic activity, public services and access to markets.
