According to data from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the **age group of 25 to 35 years** recorded the most fatalities in road accidents on **National Highways, including Expressways,** in Karnataka from 2022 to 2026. A total of **10,489 individuals** in this demographic lost their lives during this five-year span, marking it as the most affected age category.
The statistics reveal alarming annual figures: in **2022**, there were **3,346** deaths; in **2023**, the number dropped to **2,825**; it went back up to **3,027** in **2024**; further decreased to **809** in **2025**; and finally, **482** in **2026**. This fluctuation emphasizes the ongoing challenges in road safety for this age group.
In the following age bracket, **35 to 45 years**, there were **9,252 fatalities over the same period**, with **annual totals** of **2,687 in 2022**, **2,714 in 2023**, **2,691 in 2024**, **748 in 2025**, and **412 in 2026**. The **45-60 years age group** experienced **7,590 fatalities**, while **7,863 young individuals aged 18-25** also faced deadly incidents on highways, highlighting the vulnerability of younger drivers.
In addition to these figures, accidents claimed the lives of **4,498 individuals aged 60 years and above**. The data noted **1,617 fatalities** among persons under **18 years**, along with **63 cases** where age was not documented. This comprehensive dataset was shared by **Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari** during a response in Lok Sabha.
The substantial fatalities among the 25-35 age group can be ascribed to their frequency of road use.
Transport expert **M.N. Srihari** indicated that the high number of deaths in this group is due to their active lifestyles, which necessitates frequent travel for various commitments. He pointed out that young drivers often engage in speeding and other risky behaviors, believing themselves to be more skilled than they may actually be.
On actions needed to curb these fatalities, Mr. Srihari advised that stricter enforcement of traffic laws is essential, particularly against speeding and reckless driving. Additionally, he emphasized scientific analyses of accident causes and sustained road safety education as vital steps.
He proposed a **zero-tolerance policy** towards dangerous driving, suggesting that vehicles involved in serious offenses should be confiscated. Furthermore, he advocated for thorough investigations into significant accidents to ascertain causes and develop measures to avoid similar tragedies in the future.
