Alarming road safety statistics in Far West Nepal

In the past three years, 560 individuals have lost their lives in road accidents across Far West Nepal, with an additional 1,139 suffering serious injuries.

According to reports, a total of 1,315 vehicle accidents occurred from the fiscal year 2077/78 to 2079/80, involving various types of vehicles. In 2077, 187 fatalities were recorded from 562 accidents, with 587 serious injuries.

The following year, 196 people died in 511 incidents, resulting in 355 serious injuries. The trend continued into 2079, with 177 deaths from 252 accidents, alongside 197 serious and 273 minor injuries.

The data indicates a significant involvement of different vehicles, including 952 motorcycles, 228 cars, and various other types. Notably, accidents due to driver negligence (1,194 incidents) and drunkenness (30 incidents) were major contributing factors, alongside mechanical failures and poor road conditions.

Time of day also played a role in the accidents, with 318 occurring in the morning, 478 in the afternoon, and 519 at night. The demographic data shows that a majority of drivers involved were under 40 years old, raising concerns about road safety education and enforcement in the region.

These statistics underscore the urgent need for improved road safety measures and infrastructure enhancements in the Far West to prevent future tragedies.