Bengaluru’s roads witness a grim reality as two individuals lose their lives daily in accidents. Over January and February of this year, 168 lives have been claimed by road mishaps, highlighting a pressing issue. In 2023, Bengaluru saw 915 fatalities, contributing to the state’s total of 12,327 casualties since 2019.
Alok Kumar, ADGP for Road Safety and Traffic, reports an average of 34 daily deaths statewide due to road accidents. Bengaluru stands out with 4,974 accidents in 2023, resulting in 915 deaths and 4,162 injuries. It tops the list of accident-prone cities, followed by Belagavi and Tumakuru.
Accidents peak from 6 pm to 9 pm, with two-wheeler riders involved in 55-60% of incidents, and pedestrians in 15-20%. Cars, trucks, and autorickshaws also contribute. The most affected demographic is men aged 18 to 40.
Fatalities are high on national and state highways and in city hotspots like Kengeri, Yeshwanthpur, Chikkajala, Peenya, and Yelahanka.
Alok Kumar addresses the challenges of delayed ambulance responses and inadequate victim care, advocating for prompt 108 ambulance service and improved post-trauma accident protocols.
Bengaluru faces a critical road safety crisis, necessitating urgent action to curb preventable fatalities and ensure residents’ safety.
