India‘s expanding road network, crucial for economic progress, is shadowed by a concerning increase in road accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The nation’s roadways, spanning approximately 66.20 lakh kilometers, are vital for logistics and transportation, contributing significantly to India’s aspiration of becoming a $5 trillion economy. However, this growth is paralleled by a disturbing trend in road accident statistics.
According to the “Road Accidents in India – 2023” report, published by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), there were 4,80,583 road accidents in India in 2023, marking a 4.17% increase from 2022. These accidents resulted in 1,72,890 fatalities, a figure that underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures. As per information available with TahirRihat.com, collision data reveals that “Hit From Back” accidents account for 23% of the total, the highest percentage, followed by “Head on Collision” at 18% and “Hit from Side” at 15%.
In Jammu and Kashmir, the situation mirrors the national trend. In 2023, the region recorded 6,298 accidents, leading to 8,469 injuries and 893 deaths, compared to 6,092 accidents, 8,372 injuries, and 805 deaths in 2022. The “Hit from Back” collisions specifically accounted for 245 accidents, 610 injuries, and 23 deaths in J&K in 2023.
The prevalence of “Hit From Back” accidents raises significant concerns, particularly regarding pedestrian safety. These incidents often involve pedestrians walking on the left side of the road, unaware of approaching vehicles from behind. The lack of reaction time for pedestrians makes these collisions particularly dangerous, frequently resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. Unlike other types of collisions, “Hit From Back” accidents offer limited opportunity for either party to avoid impact.
One of the primary factors contributing to these accidents is the lack of accessible and usable infrastructure for pedestrians. Pathways and footpaths, intended for exclusive pedestrian use, are frequently obstructed or unusable. These areas may be unpaved, encroached upon by vendors, occupied by parked vehicles, or blocked by waste and vegetation. Consequently, pedestrians are forced to walk on the carriageway, where they are exposed to greater risk.
The combination of left-side driving and pedestrians walking on the left side further exacerbates the problem. Pedestrians often walk in the same direction as traffic, making them highly vulnerable to being hit from behind. Distractions, such as mobile phone use, can also lead pedestrians to stray onto the road without paying adequate attention to oncoming vehicles. These factors contribute significantly to “Hit-and-Run” cases, where the responsible driver flees the scene, leaving the victim without recourse.
The consequences of these accidents can be devastating, causing grievous injuries, permanent disabilities, and fatalities, leaving many families in grief. Therefore, experts suggest walking on the right side of the road, facing oncoming traffic, as a safer alternative.
To mitigate the rising rate of accidents caused by “Hit from Back” collisions, a simple yet effective rule needs promotion: “No Footpath or Shoulder? …. Walk on the Right side of Road”. The J&K State Road Safety Council should take immediate cognizance and initiate awareness campaigns emphasizing cautious driving and safe walking practices.
Turning pedestrian safety into a national habit and bringing all stakeholders on board will be critical to safeguard pedestrian lives, suggests a road safety expert. This strategy involves a collaborative approach, including government agencies, transportation authorities, and community organizations, working together to promote safe practices and enhance infrastructure.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.