India hits record high in road fatalities for 2024
India just reported its highest-ever road deaths—1,77,177 lives lost in 2024.
This alarming figure, revealed by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, puts serious pressure on the country's promise to cut road deaths in half by 2030 as part of the UN's global goals.
What's being done about it
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari called for urgent action, noting that the rise underscores the need for sharper interventions.
The government is rolling out a four-part plan: better education for drivers, safer road design, stricter enforcement, and faster emergency care.
Expect new rules like mandatory airbags and advanced safety tech, specifically ADAS features for medium and heavy vehicles, by 2027.
Plus, there's more funding for driver training and cashless treatment for accident victims to help turn things around.