New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has released its annual report on “Road Accidents in India for the year 2022.” This comprehensive report, prepared in adherence to standardized data formats provided by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) under the Asia Pacific Road Accident Data (APRAD) base project, presents critical insights into road safety in India.
According to the report, in the calendar year 2022, States and Union Territories reported a total of 461,312 road accidents, resulting in 168,491 fatalities and 443,366 injuries. This data indicates an 11.9% increase in accidents, a 9.4% rise in fatalities, and a 15.3% surge in injuries compared to the previous year.
The report underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive strategy to address the contributing factors to these accidents, which include speeding, reckless driving, drunken driving, and non-compliance with traffic regulations. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms, enhancing driver education and training programs, and investing in road and vehicle improvements are essential.
The Ministry remains dedicated to implementing robust measures to reduce road accidents and improve safety. This commitment extends to areas such as road user behavior, road infrastructure, vehicle standards, enforcement of traffic regulations, and the integration of technology to prevent accidents. Addressing road accidents requires a multi-pronged approach, involving collaborative efforts from both the Central Government and State Governments. To this end, the Ministry, in collaboration with related organizations and stakeholders, has devised a multi-faceted strategy that focuses on all 4Es: Education, Engineering (roads and vehicles), Enforcement, and Emergency Care.
Furthermore, the Ministry actively participates in initiatives related to modern transportation systems, road safety audits, and international partnerships to leverage global best practices. Initiatives like the Electronic Detailed Accident Report (e-DAR) for real-time data analysis and automated vehicle inspection centers are also underway to combat road accidents.
The “Road Accidents in India-2022” report is an invaluable resource for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in the field of road safety. It offers a deep understanding of various aspects of road accidents, including their causes, locations, and impact on different categories of road users. The report also highlights emerging trends, challenges, and the Ministry’s efforts in enhancing road safety.
For the full report, visit: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways – Road Accidents in India-2022