Nepal is facing a road safety crisis. A recent WHO report reveals that Nepal has one of the highest road traffic fatality rates in South Asia, prompting urgent calls for a comprehensive national strategy to address the issue. Released in New Delhi, the report highlights significant shortcomings in the government’s efforts to meet United Nations road safety goals, emphasizing the need for immediate action to reverse the trend.
Alarming Fatalities, Yet Limited Progress
Nepal’s road traffic fatalities have sharply increased, from 6,800 in 2011 to an estimated 8,500 in 2021, making it one of the most dangerous countries in South Asia, with 28.2 deaths per 100,000 people. Vulnerable road users—especially two-wheeler riders, pedestrians, and cyclists—make up the majority of these casualties, with pedestrians and cyclists alone representing over 25% of the fatalities.