Six big states in India, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, caused about 55% of the 173,000 road deaths last year. According to data from state governments, these states reported 95,246 road deaths in 2023, which is an increase from 91,936 deaths in the previous year. Among these states, Rajasthan had the biggest rise in deaths, with almost a 6% increase compared to 2022.

The data presents that we need to do more to be aware, prevent road accidents, and save lives. Satyendra Garg, a former police officer who worked as Delhi's traffic joint commissioner, said that most accidents and deaths can be avoided. He mentioned that if we investigate accidents properly and take specific actions to improve safety, we can reduce the number of road deaths. He spoke from his own experience with traffic problems in Delhi.

 

Experts urge improved driver education and better law enforcement

Road safety experts want authorities to stop thinking that bigger states will always have more road deaths just because they have more vehicles and roads. Naresh Raghavan, an expert in road safety and the writer of driving manuals, pointed out that it’s important to educate drivers as well as enforce traffic laws. He said that even though we can only actively enforce a few rules, many basic road safety rules need to be taught to drivers to make a real difference.

Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari is worried about the increasing number of road deaths. While speaking at a conference, he asked officials and engineers to carefully investigate all deadly accidents and take steps to fix the problems. Gadkari pointed out that almost 60% of people who die in road accidents each year are between 18 and 34 years old. He also said that these accidents have a big economic impact, costing around 3% of India’s total income (GDP).

“We have never lost so many people even in wars,” Gadkari said, urging officials to deal with road safety issues with sensitivity, identify accident-prone areas, and make the necessary improvements.