575 Developing and testing comprehensive community model to strengthen post-crash response in rural tribal settings

Background RTIs (Road Traffic Injuries) in India, claims 1,68,491 annual deaths, with 68% occurring in rural India. Rajasthan ranks 6th, with 76% rural RTI fatalities. Current prevention efforts focus on urban areas, leaving rural regions without a robust community-based response model. Recognizing this gap, we aimed to develop and test a comprehensive post-crash response model for rural communities. Objective To identify the gaps and barriers related to provisioning of post-crash response at community level. Co -designing the intervention model. Pilot testing the community-based post-crash response model. Program Description Using a mixed-method approach (KAP baseline survey, FGD, interviews), we aimed to understand the community's risk profile for RTI and identify gaps and barriers in post-crash response. Co-Creation Baseline findings and community co-creation (resource mapping and stakeholder engagement), led to co-development of need-based intervention model, focused on enhancing knowledge and skills domains in road safety, post-crash response (safe shifting, call for help, bleeding control, splinting) and government schemes. Pilot Testing By training diverse active community members Implementation: Implemented model utilizing trained community members in cascading manner with capability development. Outcomes and Learnings Three surveyors covered 400 households across 16 villages in Southern Rajasthan for a baseline survey. Only 7% knew about post-crash care, and 8% were aware of RTI-related schemes. Barriers: 74% feared legal consequences for involving in accident, and 30% feared harming victims due to a lack of knowledge. Intervention involved 100 households and relevant stakeholders, 6 programs. After two programs, model was tweaked to updated model. Pilot testing showed a 70% knowledge increase, 50% rise in rational attitudes, and 25% positive change in adopting preventive measures. Moreover, an 80% boost in post-crash response knowledge and 18% rise in awareness of emergency healthcare services showcased the model's effectiveness. 70% rise in awareness of government schemes and Good Samaritan Law addressed legal fears. Key Learnings Seamless integration, monitored interventions, early government engagement, leveraging village council strength are vital. Financial support can be force multiplier. Implication This community model is effective and scalable at communities with similar context. Conclusion The comprehensive community model is effective and implementable at community level.