Deadliest roads in the world

Kolkata has reported a significant decrease in road fatalities in 2023, with a total of 159 deaths compared to 185 in 2022, while injuries slightly rose to 1,754. The areas around Esplanade and the Port have been identified as the deadliest, with 13 fatalities each, while certain traffic guards reported only one fatal accident. Meanwhile, a World Health Organization (WHO) report highlights Africa as having the highest road fatality rate globally, with 19.5 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants, despite having only 4% of the world's vehicles. Traffic fatalities have risen by 17% in Africa between 2010 and 2021, primarily due to unsafe driving behaviors, poor infrastructure, and a lack of emergency services. Pedestrians represent one-third of all road deaths in Africa, a stark contrast to the global average of 21%. Experts stress the urgent need for improved road design and infrastructure to enhance safety for all road users, particularly in urban areas.