Increase in traffic collisions in India in 2023, death toll surpasses 168,000 as per report
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India's road network, a lifeline for its citizens, has become a battleground for safety. Everyday commuters, delivery riders, and wage workers, who form the backbone of the country, face the brunt of the chaotic and often unforgiving traffic systems without a real safety net.
The recent statistics paint a grim picture, with road accidents claiming the lives of thousands every year. A significant portion of these fatalities can be attributed to two-wheeler riders, who account for nearly 45% of all road deaths. Pedestrians also make up approximately 20% of the victims.
The trend suggests that road accidents are less about terrain and more about behaviour behind the wheel. Overspeeding, wrong-side driving, and reckless overtaking are major contributors to these fatalities.
Interestingly, the majority of crashes occur on straight stretches of roads, not sharp bends or mountain passes. This trend is particularly prevalent in rural areas, where nearly 68% of road accident deaths occur.
Highways in India account for over half of total road accidents and close to 60% of fatalities. The states of Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Kerala are among the top contributors to these accidents. Uttar Pradesh had the highest number of fatalities, followed closely by Tamil Nadu, which also had the highest number of accidents.
However, it's important to note that no specific region in India had the most reported car accidents in 2025.
The young demographic of India, aged 18-45, has been the majority of road accident victims for four consecutive years. This demographic comprises over 66% of those killed in road accidents.
This trend represents a devastating loss of lives that should have been India's demographic dividend. It also signifies a significant loss of potential productivity and growth in India's workforce.
Motorcycles, scooters, and walking are the most common and affordable forms of mobility in India, but they are associated with the greatest risk in road accidents.
In a recent report, Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, stated that nearly 27,000 people died in national highway road accidents during January-June 2025.
Addressing India's road safety crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, focusing on improving infrastructure, promoting safe driving practices, and ensuring adequate protection for vulnerable road users.
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