The growing concern for pedestrian safety in India is highlighted by alarming statistics, showing a 108% rise in pedestrian fatalities from 2016 to 2022. Fatalities surged from 15,746 in 2016 to 32,825 in 2022, underscoring a pressing issue that requires urgent intervention.

This article examines the  causes behind this crisis and emphasizes the need for immediate safety measures to protect pedestrian lives.

 India numbers (published by MoRTH in their annual reports)

While the overall number of road fatalities increased by 12% during this period, the exponential rise in pedestrian deaths is particularly alarming. In 2016, pedestrians accounted for approximately 10% of all road-related casualties; by 2022, this proportion had almost doubled to 20%. This stark discrepancy highlights the inadequate attention given to pedestrian safety in comparison to other road users.

The 2011 census data indicates that over 20% of non-agricultural workers in India depend on walking as their primary mode of commuting. This underscores the pivotal role that pedestrian mobility plays in the everyday functioning of the country’s urban centres. Despite this significance, the safety infrastructure catering to pedestrians has not kept pace with the demands of a rapidly growing population and evolving urban landscapes.

Strategies to Tackle the Pedestrian Safety Crisis in India

1. Infrastructure Development:
A targeted approach to infrastructure is essential, focusing on building and maintaining sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and adequate street lighting. Traffic-calming measures such as speed breakers, pedestrian-only zones, and raised crosswalks can drastically enhance pedestrian safety, particularly in high-traffic urban areas.

2. Speed Management:
Reducing vehicle speeds in areas with heavy pedestrian movement is crucial. Municipality have to manage lower speed limit displayed prominently particularly in areas with high pedestrian movement and cyclists traffic and police should ensure enforcing of speed limit and also installing speed calmers, speed cameras and speed bumps in such strategic locations to ensure safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.

3. Protecting Vulnerable Pedestrians:
Special safety measures must prioritize children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Installing audible pedestrian signals at intersections and ensuring ramps, tactile paving, and accessible sidewalks can create a safer environment for everyone.

4. Data-Driven Interventions:
Continuous collection and analysis of accident data are essential to understanding patterns and high-risk zones. This insight can drive focused safety initiatives, enabling policymakers to allocate resources where they are most needed. Data-informed policies also allow for timely course corrections Which may be similar to identification for black spots and renewal .

5. Enforcement of Traffic Laws:
Stringent enforcement of traffic rules is non-negotiable to deter violations. Regular monitoring, issuing fines, and leveraging technology like automated ticketing can reduce reckless behaviour and reinforce accountability on the road.

6. Addressing Drink Driving:
Alcohol-impaired driving significantly heightens accident risks. Strengthening the enforcement of  traffic laws for violations is a critical step Additionally, expanding the use of breathalyser checkpoints can help curb reckless driving and protect pedestrians.

7. Public Awareness & Community Engagement:
Education campaigns targeting both drivers and pedestrians are crucial to fostering responsible behaviour and mutual respect. Awareness initiatives should stress the use of designated crossings, avoiding phone use while walking, and following road rules. Engaging local communities in road safety programs will result in more customized, effective solutions.

With India accounting for over 11% of global road deaths, these strategies can play a pivotal role in reversing the surge in pedestrian fatalities and creating safer urban spaces.

The escalating pedestrian fatality rate in India is a pressing issue that requires a multi-faceted approach involving all stakeholders. Through a combination of improved infrastructure, targeted safety campaigns, enhanced law enforcement, and community engagement, it is possible to reverse this trend and ensure that walking remains a safe and viable transportation option.