KATHMANDU, Sept 15: Road safety campaigners, civil society leaders, and global citizens have called on Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to take immediate action to improve road safety in Nepal. In a joint petition, they urged the government to pass the Road Safety Bill, endorse the National Road Safety Strategy, and establish a Road Safety Council without delay.

The petition follows a recent tragedy where two passenger buses, carrying over 60 people, were swept into the Trishuli river by debris. While nearly 20 bodies have been recovered, many passengers are still missing. The petitioners emphasize the need to prevent such incidents in the future.

Nepal Police reports that nearly 24,000 people have died in road crashes over the past decade, with 72,000 others seriously injured. The Ministry of Health and Population notes that around 100,000 survivors of road crashes are treated annually across Nepal. The WHO South-East Asia Regional Office's latest report highlights Nepal's poor road safety indicators and its high fatality rate compared to regional neighbors.

The petitioners demand increased traffic police personnel, improved road quality, strict enforcement of road safety laws, and the establishment of vehicle fitness testing centers. They also call for enhanced CCTV surveillance, stricter laws against drunk driving, and better support for road crash victims. The measures are aimed at improving road safety, boosting economic progress, and enhancing Nepal's international reputation.