KATHMANDU: Four people died in road accidents in Kapilvastu during the 11-day period from Ghatasthapana on Oct. 11 to Oct. 21. According to the Kapilvastu Traffic Police Office, the number of casualties has increased compared to the previous year, when two deaths were recorded during the Dashain period.
Data shows that 36 road accidents occurred during this year’s festival, resulting in 18 serious injuries and 37 minor injuries. In comparison, there were 29 accidents during the same period last year, which left 14 people seriously injured and 34 with minor injuries.
Traffic Police Inspector Rajan Dhakal expressed concern over the rise in accidents despite the implementation of road safety campaigns and awareness programs. He attributed the accidents to factors including heavy traffic volume, poor road conditions, overloading of passengers, driving under the influence, and the mechanical condition of vehicles.
Separately, 19 people have died in road accidents in Kapilvastu between mid-July and mid-October. In the same period last year, 13 deaths were reported. This year, a total of 202 accidents occurred over these three months, involving 308 vehicles. The incidents resulted in 96 serious injuries and 247 minor injuries. The deceased include 14 men, two women, and three children. During the same three-month period last year, 186 accidents involving 262 vehicles were recorded, resulting in 87 serious injuries and 297 minor injuries.
