Pothole Peril: India's Silent Road Hazard

Pothole-related road accidents have surged by 53% over five years, resulting in 9,438 deaths across India. Uttar Pradesh is the most affected state, accounting for over half of the fatalities. The government emphasizes the need for better road maintenance and accountability from both the Centre and state governments.

India has witnessed a 53% rise in pothole-related road fatalities over the past five years, according to figures shared by the government in Parliament. With 9,438 lives lost, Uttar Pradesh emerges as the state most afflicted by this silent roadway menace, contributing over 54% of the total deaths.

Data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, presented by Minister Nitin Gadkari, reveals a fluctuating but generally upward trend in fatalities, highlighting an alarming peak of 2,385 deaths recorded in 2024. Despite a slight dip in 2021, the numbers have surged yearly, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructural improvements and accountability.

Regional disparities are notable, with states like Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu reporting significant numbers, while others such as Andhra Pradesh and Bihar reported none. Nationally, over 23,000 pothole-related accidents resulted in nearly 20,000 injuries, prompting calls for stringent road maintenance and state-level responsibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)