We should mobilize resources to reduce road fatalities in India
The sensational Himalayan tunnel rescue operation in Silkyara, lasting 17 days, riveted the nation’s attention. The deployment of foreign experts, high-tech boring equipment and 41 ambulances (one for each of construction workers) was proof that India values human lives and will do what’s needed to prevent fatalities. It is surprising that the death of more than ten times that number every day on Indian roads is not being addressed with the same alacrity.
Ever since the National Highways Development Programme was launched in 1998, ministers for road transport have committed themselves to dramatically reducing road accidents and fatalities, some even announcing impressive timelines. However, the ground reality belies that aspiration. Timelines have often been extended.
As per Road Accidents in India: 2022, published by the ministry of road transport and highways, the number of fatalities in 2022 rose to 168,000 from about 150,000 the previous year. A World Bank press release of June 2022 states that India loses more than 5% of its GDP to road accidents and related fatalities. More than 80% of those suffering road mishaps are in the productive age group.
Globally, India has the highest fatalities. According to the World Health Organization, despite having only 1% of the world’s vehicles, India accounts for almost 11% of all crash-related-deaths. Such a death occurs every three minutes.
In contrast, China has roughly the same population but just one-third the road fatalities. A common misconception is that accidents occur because of bad roads. But, both in terms of quality and the length of expressways and highways, we have seen a significant enhancement in India.
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