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Why have authorities reduced the maximum speed on two major expressways to 75 km per hour, how long will the restrictions last, and what new safety measures are being rolled out for motorists as dense fog and slippery roads create hazardous winter conditions across the region?
Updated speed limits will reflect on Google Maps.
New Delhi: The speed limit on the Noida Greater Noida Expressway and the Yamuna Expressway has been officially reduced to 75 kilometres per hour for light vehicles as winter conditions worsen across the region. The seasonal change comes into effect from December 15, a period when visibility traditionally declines and road surfaces become slippery. Until now, vehicles were permitted to travel at 100 kilometres per hour, a limit frequently revised during the winter months to control accident numbers.
Officials confirmed that the limit for heavy vehicles will continue to remain 60 kilometres per hour on the Yamuna Expressway and 50 kilometres per hour on the Noida Greater Noida stretch. These restrictions align with the annual two month winter protocol enforced to improve road safety.
Updated Limits Will Reflect on Google Maps
Noida Traffic Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr Pravin Ranjan Singh stated that a review meeting with the Noida Authority will take place shortly, after which the revised limits will be activated on Google Maps. The integration of updated speed restrictions with digital navigation systems began during the road safety month held in November and aims to ensure drivers receive real time information while commuting.
Toll Plazas Launch Extensive Safety Awareness Drive
According to toll operations officials, staff at expressway plazas are broadcasting safety advisories through public address systems and distributing pamphlets to drivers. Night shift truckers are encouraged to take tea breaks to stay alert, while all commercial vehicles are being urged to apply reflective tapes to enhance visibility during fog.
Toll plaza staff across Agra, Mathura and Jewar have been briefed extensively on safety protocols. Patrol teams continue daily monitoring of the expressway to respond quickly to emergencies and reduce the possibility of pile ups or collisions.
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Administration Urges Caution as Visibility Drops
With temperatures dipping and dense fog becoming more frequent, the district administration has appealed to motorists to ensure vehicle readiness before travelling. Officials emphasised the need to check fog lamps, replace worn out wiper blades and use defoggers regularly to maintain a clear view through windshields and rear glass.
The advisory stresses that small precautions can prevent major accidents during the high risk winter period when sudden fog patches can catch drivers off guard.
High Number of Speeding Violations Reported in 2025
Data from Noida traffic police highlights the scale of the speeding problem on these expressways. Between January and October 2025, a total of 59,242 challans were issued for speeding violations. Accident statistics from previous years underline why seasonal restrictions are necessary.
In 2024, 1,165 road accidents were recorded in the area, resulting in 462 deaths and injuries to 966 individuals. Between January and August 2025 alone, authorities registered 797 accidents that caused 311 fatalities and left 585 people injured. Officials believe that reducing speed during winter months plays a crucial role in preventing collisions and saving lives.
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Seasonal Curbs Expected to Continue
Authorities have confirmed that the reduced limits will remain in place until the end of the winter season. Law enforcement agencies and expressway operators will continue to monitor weather patterns, traffic density and accident data before deciding whether further measures are required.
The decision reflects a wider effort to ensure safer travel conditions and minimise road accidents during the period most prone to fog and poor visibility.
