Revamping Roads for Safer, Healthier Cities: WHO's Call to Action

The WHO is urging global efforts to enhance road safety through people-centered mobility policies, improved road designs, and safer vehicles. Highlighting the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, the focus is on safe walking and cycling, integral to promoting healthier, sustainable cities and reducing road accident casualties.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on member states, civil society, private sector, and communities to foster people-centered mobility strategies, safer road designs, and secure vehicles. This comes as part of the 8th United Nations Global Road Safety Week.

Taking place biennially starting the third Monday of May, this year's theme focuses on securing safe walking and cycling as vital components of multimodal transport systems, according to WHO South-East Asia Regional Director, Saima Wazed. These actions also promote healthier, sustainable urban settings.

Highlighting the grim statistics, nearly 1.2 million lives are lost to road crashes annually, Wazed emphasized the urgent need for prevention. Vulnerable road users, like pedestrians and cyclists, comprise a significant portion of fatalities, showcasing a pressing public health concern that intertwines with promoting physical and mental well-being.

(With inputs from agencies.)