Kathmandu: The Traffic Police has identified high-speed driving and the breach of traffic rules as the primary causes of road accidents, according to an analysis conducted by the Kathmandu Valley Traffic Police Office (KVTPO).

Senior Superintendent of Police Rajendra Prasad Bhatta, spokesperson for KVTPO, emphasized that road accidents are largely attributed to factors such as excessive speed and disregarding traffic signs and signals. Additionally, driving under the influence of alcohol or narcotics, poor road conditions, vehicle defects, and insufficient knowledge of traffic rules contribute to the rising number of accidents.

SSP Bhatta stressed the need to prioritize public awareness campaigns, particularly focusing on speed limits and adherence to traffic rules. Currently, the Kathmandu Valley is witnessing a 'Traffic Week' awareness campaign, and SSP Bhatta mentioned that such campaigns should be regular and ongoing rather than limited to a specific week.

Over the past five years, nearly 13,000 people lost their lives, and thousands suffered injuries in road accidents nationwide. In the last year alone, around 3,000 individuals lost their lives due to road accidents. With an increasing number of vehicles, the Traffic Police emphasizes the importance of conducting continuous traffic awareness campaigns targeting drivers, conductors, pedestrians, students, and the general public.

Deputy Inspector General of Police Kuber Kadayat, the central spokesperson of Nepal Police, highlighted the crucial role of local bodies in maintaining road discipline and creating awareness about the responsibilities of road users. He called for the expansion of traffic awareness campaigns throughout the country, with an emphasis on collaboration with local governments.