Chandigarh sees pedestrian road deaths; 2024 uptick signals uneven safety gains

According to data tabled in the Lok Sabha, annual road deaths in Chandigarh rose from 53 in 2020 to 96 in 2021, then declined to 83 in 2022 and 67 in 2023, but climbed again to 75 in 2024, reversing a two-year downward trend.

The data was shared in response to a starred question by Chandigarh MP Manish Tewari, who sought details on pedestrian infrastructure and safety measures.

Only two pedestrian fatalities occurred on National Highways in Chandigarh in 2024, indicating most fatal accidents happen on city roads and internal sectors.

Union road transport minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari said pedestrian infrastructure, including footpaths, crossings, and foot overbridges, is mandated under Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines and integrated into highway planning based on need.

The 12% rise in 2024 suggests earlier improvements have not translated into long-term structural change, pointing to inconsistent enforcement and gaps in pedestrian infrastructure.