GRIM REALITY OF ROAD ACCIDENTS IN INDIA

India's 2022 road accident report reveals over 4.6 lakh accidents, causing 1,68,491 deaths and 4,43,366 injuries, with National Highways accounting for 36.2% of fatalities despite being only 2% of the road network; Tamil Nadu had the most accidents, and Uttar Pradesh the highest fatalities.

India's roads continue to tell a troubling tale of escalating accidents and fatalities. According to the comprehensive "Road Accidents in India 2022" report by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, over 4.6 lakh accidents were reported across the country, marking a worrying increase of 11.9% compared to 2021.

These accidents resulted in 1,68,491 fatalities and left 4,43,366 individuals injured. On average, 53 accidents and 19 deaths occurred every hour, underscoring the urgent need for effective road safety measures.

The most dangerous roads in India are the National Highways (NH), including Expressways. Although these roads constitute only about 2% of the total road network in India, they accounted for 36.2% of fatalities and 32.9% of total road accidents in 2022. This disproportionate share highlights their risk factor.

Among the states, Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of accidents on National Highways, while Uttar Pradesh reported the highest fatalities.

KEY POINTS MADE IN NCRB DATA

RISING FATALITIES: The number of fatal accidents rose by 9.6%, with young adults (18-45 years) accounting for a significant 66.5% of the victims. Overall, individuals in the productive age group (18-60 years) comprised 83.4% of total fatalities.

Two-wheeler riders emerged as the most vulnerable group, contributing to 44.5% of fatalities, followed by pedestrians at 19.5%.

Geographical Insights:
• Tamil Nadu reported the highest number of road accidents at 64,105 cases, while Uttar Pradesh witnessed the maximum fatalities, with 22,595 deaths.
• Rural areas bore the brunt of these incidents, accounting for 68% of total deaths, while urban regions recorded 32%.