New Delhi: Delhi has once again recorded the highest number of road accidents among 53 cities in India for the third consecutive year in 2024, according to data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) on Wednesday.
The figures, published in the report 'Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India 2024', highlight a grim and persistent trend on the city's roads. In 2024, Delhi reported 5,573 road accidents, which left 4,718 people injured and claimed 1,551 lives. This marks a marginal decline in the number of accidents compared to 2023, when 5,715 accidents were recorded, but fatalities have increased from 1,457 in 2023 to 1,551 in 2024.
Delhi has consistently topped the list in previous years as well. In 2023, the city recorded 5,715 accidents, 4,880 injuries, and 1,457 deaths, while in 2022, there were 5,387 accidents. The data reveals that despite a slight dip in accident numbers, the death toll has risen, indicating a worrying trend in road safety.
Disproportionate Fatalities Compared to Other Cities
The data also underscores that Delhi's death toll remains disproportionately high when compared to other major cities. For instance, Hyderabad, which recorded nearly 3,800 accidents, saw only 301 deaths—less than one-fifth of Delhi's fatalities. Similarly, Bengaluru, whose accident numbers were relatively close to Delhi's, reported substantially fewer deaths.
Vehicle-Specific Accident Data
In crashes involving SUVs, cars, and jeeps, Delhi again ranked first with 1,112 injuries and 288 deaths. Private vehicle-related crashes continue to form a major portion of urban road fatalities, with high-speed corridors, increasing vehicle ownership, and dense traffic movement remaining key concerns.
The city also recorded the highest number of deaths involving two-wheelers, at 687, followed by Bengaluru at 467. Road safety experts have repeatedly flagged the vulnerability of motorcyclists and scooter riders in Delhi, especially on highways and arterial roads.
In incidents involving three-wheelers, Delhi recorded the highest number of injuries at 321 and the second-highest fatalities at 95. Prayagraj topped this category with 104 fatalities. Additionally, Delhi recorded the highest number of bicycle-related injuries at 161.
Monthly Trends in 2024
Month-wise data showed that accidents remained consistently high throughout 2024. March recorded the highest number of accidents at 525, followed by October at 509 and September at 481.
Road safety experts emphasize the need for stricter enforcement of traffic rules, better infrastructure, and increased awareness to curb the rising fatalities. The persistent high numbers call for urgent measures to improve road safety in the national capital.
