A new pilot study has highlighted serious health concerns among truck drivers in India, showing that more than half of those surveyed have poor vision, while 57% suffer from high blood pressure. The findings have raised alarms about the safety of both truck drivers and other road users.
The study, conducted among a sample group of truck drivers, found that a significant number of them struggle with vision impairments that could affect their ability to drive safely, especially at night or in adverse weather conditions. Additionally, over half of the drivers surveyed had high blood pressure, a condition that increases the risk of heart disease, fatigue, and sudden medical emergencies while driving.
Health experts emphasize that long working hours, irregular sleep patterns, and lack of access to proper healthcare contribute to these alarming statistics. Many truck drivers in India do not undergo regular medical check-ups, which leads to undiagnosed and untreated health conditions.
Road safety advocates have urged authorities to implement mandatory vision and health screenings for commercial vehicle drivers. They also recommend awareness campaigns, access to affordable healthcare services, and improved working conditions to address these health risks.
The study underscores the urgent need for interventions to safeguard both truck drivers and the general public. As discussions on road safety continue, stakeholders are calling for immediate action to ensure healthier, safer driving conditions across the country.
