Himachal Pradesh has witnessed a sharp 29% increase in road accidents during the first three months of 2026 compared to the same period last year, with Mandi district reporting the highest number of cases, according to official data released by the state police.
Rise in Accidents and Fatalities
Between January and March 2026, a total of 1,234 road accidents were recorded across the state, up from 957 in the corresponding period of 2025. This marks a significant rise of 277 incidents. The data also reveals that the number of fatalities increased by 18%, with 456 deaths reported in Q1 2026 compared to 387 in Q1 2025. Injuries also rose, with 1,023 people injured in accidents this year, against 892 last year.
District-Wise Breakdown
Mandi district reported the highest number of accidents at 189, followed by Kangra with 167 and Shimla with 143. Other districts with high accident counts include Solan (112), Hamirpur (98), and Bilaspur (87). The lowest numbers were recorded in Lahaul and Spiti (12) and Kinnaur (18).
Police officials attribute the rise to several factors, including speeding, drunk driving, and poor road conditions. Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Rajesh Kumar stated, "We are intensifying enforcement drives and awareness campaigns to curb accidents. However, the hilly terrain and narrow roads pose inherent challenges."
Major Causes and Concerns
- Speeding: Over 40% of accidents are attributed to overspeeding, especially on highways and curved roads.
- Drunk Driving: Nearly 25% of fatal accidents involve drivers under the influence of alcohol.
- Road Conditions: Poor maintenance and lack of guardrails on steep stretches contribute to accidents.
- Vehicle Overloading: Commercial vehicles often exceed capacity, leading to loss of control.
Government Response and Measures
The state government has announced a multi-pronged approach to address the issue. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said that a road safety fund of INR 50 crore has been allocated for installing crash barriers, improving signage, and deploying more traffic personnel. Additionally, the transport department is conducting regular checks on commercial vehicles and issuing challans for violations.
In Mandi, the district administration has identified 20 black spots where accidents are frequent. Measures such as speed breakers, warning signs, and increased patrolling are being implemented. "We are also working with the public works department to widen roads at critical points," said Mandi Deputy Commissioner Arindam Chaudhary.
Public Awareness Campaigns
The police have launched a statewide awareness campaign titled "Surakshit Himachal" focusing on helmet and seatbelt usage, safe driving practices, and the dangers of drunk driving. Over 10,000 pamphlets have been distributed, and workshops are being held in schools and colleges.
Despite these efforts, residents remain concerned. Local activist Meera Sharma from Kangra said, "The government needs to do more. Roads are getting busier, but infrastructure improvements are slow. We need stricter enforcement and better emergency response."
As the tourist season approaches, authorities are bracing for increased traffic. The police have urged drivers to exercise caution and follow traffic rules. With the current trend, Himachal Pradesh may see over 5,000 accidents by the end of 2026 if preventive measures are not strengthened.
