Pedestrians, cyclists among over 330K deaths from road crashes in SE Asia in 2021: WHO

IANS May 12, 2025 231 views

The World Health Organization has revealed alarming statistics about road fatalities in Southeast Asia during 2021. Over 330,000 deaths occurred, with vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists bearing the brunt of these tragic incidents. Young people between 5-29 years are particularly at risk, making road safety a critical public health concern. The WHO is calling for comprehensive strategies including people-centered mobility policies, safer road design, and community engagement to reduce these preventable deaths.

"Vulnerable road users are up to 66 per cent of these fatalities" - Saima Wazed, WHO South-East Asia Regional Director
New Delhi, May 12: Pedestrians and cyclists are among more than 330,000 deaths from road crashes in the Southeast Asia region in 2021, said the World Health Organization (WHO) on Monday, as part of the eighth UN Global Road Safety Week.

Key Points

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- Road crashes killed over 330,000 people in Southeast Asia in 2021

The UN Global Road Safety Week is marked biennially, starting on the third Monday of May. The theme this year is "Make walking and cycling safe", urging the world to make walking and cycling safe for everyone.

Saima Wazed, Regional Director for WHO South-East Asia said that road traffic injuries are now the leading cause of death among young people aged 5 to 29 years, and they continue to be a pressing public health concern in our WHO South-East Asia Region.

"In 2021 alone, our region accounted for more than 330,000 deaths from road crashes, representing 28 per cent of the global total," Wazed said.

"Vulnerable road users -- including pedestrians, cyclists, and operators of two- and three-wheelers -- are up to 66 per cent of these fatalities," she added.

Wazed noted pedestrians and cyclists already account for more than one in four road traffic deaths. Besides saving lives, making roads safe is also crucial to boost health. Safe roads can not only improve community well-being but also enhance environmental sustainability.

"Prioritising walking and cycling supports physical activity, which is a key modifiable risk factor for noncommunicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. Walking and cycling also support mental well-being, helping to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety," Wazed highlighted.

Globally, road traffic crashes claim the lives of nearly 1.2 million people and leave up to 50 million more with non-fatal injuries every year.

Wazed urged civil society, the private sector, and communities to push for people-centred mobility policies, safer road design, safe vehicles, and lower speed limits.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
This is heartbreaking! In our cities, footpaths are either non-existent or occupied by vendors and parked vehicles. Cyclists risk their lives daily sharing roads with speeding vehicles. Authorities must create proper cycling lanes and enforce traffic rules strictly. 🚴‍♀️
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Rahul M.
While the numbers are alarming, I feel India has improved compared to 5 years ago. Many cities now have better footpaths and awareness campaigns. But enforcement remains weak - people still jump signals and drive recklessly. Heavy fines + license cancellation needed!
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Ananya S.
The government should make cycling infrastructure mandatory in all smart city projects. Look at European countries - cycling is safe and popular there. We need that culture here too. Plus it would reduce pollution and fuel costs. Win-win situation!
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Vikram J.
As someone who cycles to work daily in Bangalore, I can confirm it's like playing Russian roulette. Drivers have zero respect for cyclists. The WHO report is spot on - we need lower speed limits near schools/hospitals and proper zebra crossings that vehicles actually stop at.
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Sunita P.
While infrastructure is important, we also need to change mindsets. Many people still see walking/cycling as 'poor people's transport' rather than healthy, eco-friendly choices. Public awareness campaigns should highlight the health benefits mentioned in this article.
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Karan D.
Respectfully disagree with some comments - before building new infrastructure, we should properly maintain existing roads. Potholes cause more accidents than lack of cycling lanes in many Indian cities. Fix basic infrastructure first, then add fancy cycling tracks.

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Tags:
Road Safety WHO Pedestrian Deaths Cycling Safety Saima Wazed Southeast Asia Traffic Injuries