India records over 180,000 pedestrian deaths, averages over 30,500 annually
India's roads have claimed over 180,000 pedestrian lives between 2019 and 2024. That's averaging over 30,500 deaths annually.
National Highways accounted for nearly 31% of all pedestrian fatalities during this period, and in 2024 alone, nearly 54% of pedestrian deaths involved collisions with two-wheelers and cars, claiming 19,680 lives.
States like Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Maharashtra topped the list for fatalities, while big cities weren't far behind. 53 million-plus cities recorded 4,328 pedestrian deaths, which was 11.8% of all such fatalities.
Supreme Court wants footpaths made law
Alarmed by these numbers, the Supreme Court has told the government to get serious about pedestrian safety, reminding everyone that safe mobility is a right under the Constitution.
The court wants better footpaths made law.
Experts agree: India needs proper signage and smarter road design so people can walk without risking their lives every day.