The roadways in India are infamous due to the high mortality rate associated with them. In 2014, over 1.4 lakh people lost their lives due to accidents. That is 3% more than the number in 2013. Put another way, 16 deaths occur on Indian roads every hour. On the other hand, over 4 lakh people were injured in crashes. Both these figures are the highest ever recorded. This is alarmingly high and an obvious indicator of the risk every road-user is put in, whenever they are on the roads.
Going by the report of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), speeding and rash driving are the primary causes of accidents and fatalities. Around 50% of lives lost were due to accidents involving a heavy vehicle such as a truck, and a two-wheeler.
The report also notes that 32% of deaths involving the paramilitary occur due to road accidents; while 7% of deaths occur in anti-terrorism operations. This in itself is quite a startling fact on its own. Speaking in terms of states, in particular, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Rajasthan boast the most dangerous roads as they account for over 40% of the fatalities.
Such figures are really unhealthy for a fast-growing nation that in India. We must put into perspective the importance of our lives as well as of others on the road. As Logical Indians, always ensure the safety of yourself and others, by driving responsibly and always wearing your seatbelt or helmet.