Hyderabad: Over 360 persons die in road crashes in Rachakonda till June

Rachakonda Police reported 363 road deaths in 1,822 mishaps this year until June, nearly overtaking 2024’s total. Self-skid accidents and helmetless riding at night are major causes. Police are enforcing corrective measures and awareness programs for road safety

Hyderabad: A total of 363 persons have lost their lives in the 1,822 road mishaps which were reported in the first half of this year until June, in Rachakonda Police Commissionerate.

This number is expected to soon surpass the total number of deaths – 374 in 1,713 road crashes – reported during the year 2024.

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Rachakonda Police said of the road crashes reported, self-skid accidents are observed to be on top of the list, particularly caused by nighttime reckless driving and drunk driving.

While in 2024, a total of 96 self-skid road crashes with 77 deaths were reported, this year until now, 140 cases were reported with 112 people losing their lives. It was also observed that most two-wheeler deaths were linked to non-usage of helmets. In rural areas, helmet compliance was abysmal.

To promote safer riding practices and address life-threatening violations, Rachakonda Police have adopted a corrective approach wherein two-wheeler riders caught without helmets are encouraged to purchase and wear a helmet immediately.

“This method not only reinforces the importance of helmet use through enforcement but also ensures real-time compliance by facilitating on-the-spot corrective action. By combining enforcement with education and immediate rectification, this initiative aims to instill long-term behavioural change among riders,” said a traffic police official.

Apart from this, repeat offenders are being identified and stricter penalties are being applied. Parallelly, awareness programs are also being taken up.

“These initiatives feature live demonstrations, testimonials from accident survivors, and interactive sessions to educate the public on traffic rules and road safety practices,” the official said.

Rachakonda Police Advisory:

*Bikers should wear helmets

* Car drivers and passengers should use seatbelts

*Follow traffic signals and road signs

*Avoid mobile phone use while driving

*Stay cautious near pedestrian crossings and school zones.