India, Nov. 7 -- Transportation is the lifeline of any nation, facilitating economic growth, social interaction, and national integration. From bustling highways to vital railway networks and expanding aviation routes, the efficiency and safety of transport systems determine a country's progress and global competitiveness. However, across much of Southeast Asia, this lifeline is fraying.

The region has witnessed an alarming rise in man-made transportation accidents on roads, rails, and in the air and water, underscoring deep-rooted systemic failures.

Despite repeated warnings from experts and recurring tragedies, safety remains a neglected priority. The real crisis lies not merely in poor infrastructure, but in governance deficits, corr...