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Road Traffic Injuries, Trends, and Patterns: A Five-Year Retrospective Analysis Using Secondary Police Data in Nepal.
Raymond B C1, Jeena Khadka2, Gaurav Devkota3
1Nepal Health Professional Council, Bansbari, Kathmandu, Nepal.
JNMA; Journal of the Nepal Medical Association
|March 5, 2026
Summary
Road traffic accidents in Nepal are increasing, particularly involving two- and four-wheeled vehicles. While injuries are rising, fatality rates are not proportionally increasing, suggesting a need for improved road safety measures.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Transportation Safety
Background:
- Road traffic accidents (RTAs) pose a significant public health challenge in Nepal, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality.
- Understanding trends in RTAs is crucial for developing effective prevention and management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the trends of road traffic injuries in Nepal over a five-year period, from Fiscal Year 2020/21 to 2024/25.
- To identify key factors contributing to RTAs and the types of vehicles most involved.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive retrospective study design was employed, analyzing de-identified road traffic accident records.
- Data were collected and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019 following ethical clearance from the Nepal Health Research Council.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in RTAs was observed from FY 2020/21 to 2024/25, with both vehicle collisions and overall accident incidences rising substantially.
- Reported vehicle crashes increased from 33,135 to 43,165, and total RTAs rose from 20,640 to 28,692.
- Major contributing factors included speeding (44.08%), mechanical failure (39.14%), potholes (21.69%), unsafe pedestrian crossings (79.55%), and adverse weather conditions (26.23%). Two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and public transport vehicles were most frequently involved.
Conclusions:
- Road traffic accidents are escalating in Nepal, with a notable rise in incidents involving motorcycles, cars, and public transport.
- While injury rates have increased, fatality rates have not risen proportionally, indicating potential areas for intervention.
- Implementing enhanced road safety enforcement, improving infrastructure, and conducting public awareness campaigns are recommended to mitigate accident rates and their impact.
