In a recent statement made in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding road accidents in India. According to Gadkari, 60% of the 1.78 lakh people who lost their lives in road accidents in 2023 belonged to the 18-34 age group. This concerning trend underscores the vulnerability of young adults on the roads, with many failing to adhere to basic safety measures.
Gadkari emphasized that many individuals continue to flout traffic laws, contributing to the rising accident toll. “It is unfortunate that 60% of the victims fall in the 18 to 34 age group. Despite this, there is still no fear of the law,” said Gadkari, pointing to the widespread disregard for road safety. He specifically cited the common disregard for helmet use by two-wheeler riders and instances of individuals running red lights as major contributing factors to the high accident rate.
The minister further shared that when representing India at international conferences discussing road safety, he often feels embarrassed by the grim statistics. “When I attend international conferences discussing road accidents, I try to hide my face,” Gadkari confessed.
In his address, the Union Minister also recounted a personal experience, recalling a severe road accident several years ago involving himself and his family. Although he and his family were hospitalized for a prolonged period, Gadkari expressed gratitude, saying, “By the grace of God, I and my family were saved. So I have my personal experience of accidents.”
Gadkari also reiterated his goal to reduce road accidents by 50% when he assumed office as Minister for Road Transport and Highways. However, despite his efforts, road fatalities remain a significant challenge.
Regional Breakdown: Uttar Pradesh and Delhi Lead in Fatalities
Gadkari further revealed that Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of road accident deaths, contributing over 23,000 fatalities, or 13.7% of the national total. Tamil Nadu follows with more than 18,000 deaths (10.6%), while Maharashtra reports over 15,000 fatalities, accounting for 9% of all road accidents. Madhya Pradesh also recorded more than 13,000 deaths, contributing 8% to the national tally.
In urban areas, Delhi leads the chart with over 1,400 deaths, followed by Bengaluru with 915 deaths, and Jaipur with 850 fatalities. These statistics underscore the critical need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and enhanced safety measures, especially in high-risk areas.
The Union Minister’s remarks come as the government continues to explore measures aimed at improving road safety across the nation. As road accidents remain a major public safety issue, the government’s efforts to curb fatalities and encourage safer driving practices are crucial in tackling this ongoing crisis.
Sources By Agencies
