Road crash fatalities likely to decline in 2026, UP sees highest road deaths: Govt

India is projected to see a 3.2% decline in road crash deaths in 2026 to about 177,500, while accidents are estimated to rise 1.3% to 520,200, per data from the Union ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH).

Uttar Pradesh recorded the highest road fatalities at 14,794 deaths till July 27, followed by Tamil Nadu (10,298), Maharashtra (9,279), and Madhya Pradesh (8,098).

National Highways, including expressways, accounted for 77,234 accidents and 62,122 fatalities (35% of total) till July 27.

Over-speeding was the biggest traffic rule violation linked to crashes, contributing to 46,075 accidents in 2026.

Road crash deaths have risen by 25.5% over the past decade, from 146,133 in 2015 to 183,382 in 2025.