Why Road Safety

Each year, India witnesses tens of thousands of road traffic deaths and millions of serious injuries. Road crashes are one of the leading causes of death among children and young adults aged 5 to 29 years in the country. With rapid urbanization and rising demand for mobility, our transport systems are under immense pressure — particularly those dominated by private vehicles. Yet, road and transport infrastructure in many regions is still designed primarily for motor traffic, not for people, and not with safety as the foremost priority. This approach delays progress in saving lives and protecting vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Beyond the immeasurable human tragedy, road traffic crashes also exact a heavy economic burden on India. Estimates suggest that road accidents cost the nation the equivalent of 3–5% of its GDP each year through lost productivity, healthcare expenses, and infrastructure damage. The Coalition for Road Safety exists to change this reality. By uniting NGOs, corporates, government bodies, law enforcement agencies, academic institutions, and road safety experts, the Coalition works to transform policies, strengthen road safety standards, and protect every road user. Together, we believe that these devastating consequences are preventable — and that through collaboration, advocacy, and action, India can build a future where safe roads are a right, not a privilege.