Alarming increase in traffic accidents on Balochistan’s national highways results in over 17,000 fatalities in 3 yrs

QUETTA (6 AM Report): Traffic accidents on national highways in Balochistan have reached an alarming level, resulting in the loss of precious human lives. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics has released a report indicating that from 2018 to 2021, 30,909 traffic accidents occurred across the country, with 17,184 fatalities and 38,476 injuries. Balochistan alone reported 1,373 road traffic accidents in the past three years, leading to 934 deaths and 1,757 injuries.
One of the main reasons for the increasing number of traffic accidents in Balochistan is the lack of dual carriageways and the dilapidated condition of national highways. The narrow roads and poor maintenance make it difficult for drivers to navigate, especially at night, and lead to accidents due to overtaking. The report suggests that the province needs to invest in modernizing its infrastructure and improve road conditions to prevent accidents and save lives.
The shortage of manpower is another significant issue in preventing traffic accidents in Balochistan. The report recommends deploying Rescue 1122 on other highways, allowing timely first aid to injured individuals and potentially saving lives.
The World Health Organization’s report suggests that every year, 13.5 lakh people worldwide lose their lives due to road accidents, with 20 to 50 lakh individuals injured. In Pakistan, an estimated 30,582 people die each year as a result of road accidents, with more than 9,000 fatalities in Balochistan alone, and 27,000 to 30,000 people injured.
The alarming rise in traffic accidents calls for immediate attention and action to ensure the safety of citizens on Balochistan’s national highways. The authorities must take swift and decisive measures to address the issues highlighted in the report and prevent further loss of life.