Belagavi: The number of road accidents in Belagavi district continues to rise in 2026. Between January and June 8, a total of 1,017 accidents resulted in 367 fatalities and 1,337 injuries. In comparison, the entire year of 2025 recorded 2,052 accidents, with 805 deaths and 3,058 injuries.
Alarming Trend in Accidents
Accidents have surged in the past five months, and if the trend persists, it is likely to surpass previous records. Police attribute the increase primarily to rural roads. Key causes include reckless driving, riding two-wheelers without helmets, violating traffic rules, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, and using poorly maintained vehicles.
Police Initiatives to Curb Accidents
The district police have launched several measures to control accidents. A major initiative involves monitoring traffic rule compliance through AI cameras. Plans are in place to install 290 AI-based CCTVs at 145 locations across the district, excluding Belagavi city. In the first phase, 30 cameras have been installed at 15 locations. These cameras automatically issue notices to over a thousand vehicle owners daily for traffic violations.
The cameras will be deployed in three phases and are managed from the office of the district superintendent of police. Currently, more than 1,000 violations are detected daily, with a peak of over 4,000 cases recorded.
Mandatory Helmets and One-Way Traffic
Helmets will be made mandatory on rural roads, where accidents are more frequent. One-way traffic rules will be enforced, and careless driving will be monitored. Cameras will be installed at strategic locations to enhance surveillance.
Police Chief's Statement
District Superintendent of Police K Ramarajan emphasized that collecting fines alone is not the solution. "AI-powered cameras are being used to monitor traffic violations. If people follow traffic rules, accidents can be reduced. We take seriously the fact that 900 people die in road accidents in the district every year. Motorists should follow traffic rules," he added.
Accident Data Comparison
- 2025 (Full Year): Total accidents 2,052; Serious 759; Non-serious 1,293; Deaths 805; Injured 3,058.
- 2026 (Till June 8): Total accidents 1,017; Serious 353; Non-serious 664; Deaths 367; Injured 1,337.
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