Kathmandu | The traffic accident statistics in Nepal clearly reveal a serious road safety problem. In the six months from Shrawan to Poush (July-December), there were 11,338 vehicle accidents nationwide. These figures indicate an average of 62 accidents daily, resulting in 7 deaths. This is not just about statistics; it’s a serious indication of the country’s road safety situation, highlighting the lack of traffic management and public awareness.
During this six-month period, 1,236 people died and 3,262 were seriously injured, further complicating the road safety situation. Similarly, there were 15,518 minor injuries, showing the depth of impact from road accidents. Among these accidents, Madhesh Province recorded the highest number of incidents, while Gandaki Province had the lowest. Looking at provincial data, Madhesh Province leads with 3,248 accidents, while Gandaki only recorded 185 accidents.
The statistics from Lumbini Province are even more serious. In Poush (December) alone, 365 vehicle accidents in this province resulted in 57 deaths and 592 injuries. This data clearly shows the poor condition of roads in Lumbini Province. Districts like Rupandehi and Dang have seen numerous accidents. Rupandehi recorded 83 accidents with 9 deaths, while Dang had 56 accidents with 11 deaths. Similarly, districts like Western Nawalparasi, Banke, and Bardiya also face serious vehicle accident situations.
Studying the main causes of accidents reveals that high speed, alcohol consumption, traffic rule violations, and road infrastructure problems are the primary factors. Driver negligence is the main cause in most accidents. The Nepal Police reports that behaviors such as not following speed limits, drunk driving at night, and dangerous overtaking have increased accident risks.
Madhesh Province has the highest number of accidents with 3,248 incidents, indicating a need for major improvements in traffic management and road infrastructure. Similarly, Kathmandu Valley recorded 2,429 accidents, most occurring in crowded urban areas. Koshi Province had 2,817 accidents resulting in 232 deaths.
In Poush alone, Lumbini Province’s accident figures further highlight the region’s risks. In Rupandehi, 83 accidents resulted in 116 injuries, while Dang recorded 97 injuries. Police reports indicate the main causes as speeding, alcohol consumption, and lack of road signs.
According to Nepal Police, in Poush alone, 12,267 vehicles were penalized for traffic rule violations, collecting 1.3 million rupees in revenue. This shows a high level of traffic rule non-compliance. There should be concrete plans to invest this revenue in road infrastructure improvement and public awareness programs.
Police are attempting to reduce accidents through awareness programs, conducting 1,126 programs with over 52,000 participants in Poush alone. These programs need to be more effective, especially targeting youth, who make up a large portion of accident victims.
To reduce future accidents, improving road infrastructure and effective traffic rule enforcement are essential. Particularly, high-risk areas need to be identified and their road infrastructure improved. Speed breakers, signage, and proper night lighting are necessary. Additionally, CCTV installation and automated speed check systems can help prevent rule violations.
Nepal’s roads face serious challenges today. The daily average of 62 accidents and 7 deaths shows the need for extensive improvements in traffic management. If these problems aren’t addressed promptly, accident numbers will surely increase. Long-term plans for road safety must be developed while reducing accident causes. Only collaboration between police administration, local government, and citizens can solve this challenge.