Contrary to the consistent praise from politicians about the country’s infrastructure and how “world-class” it is, the reality is not as shiny. From damaged surfaces and inadequate repairs to seasonal wear and tear, gaps in road upkeep remain a persistent concern even as the country expands its highway network and transport capacity. Fresh government data presented in Parliament showed that potholes continue to pose a growing threat to road safety in India,
Deaths linked to pothole accidents rose sharply over the past five years, the government told the Parliament. A total of 9,438 people lost their lives in pothole-related crashes between 2020 and 2024, marking a 53% increase.
A look at the govt data
Data shared by Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in a written reply showed that fatalities, after a brief dip in 2021, have climbed steadily each year, reaching a high of 2,385 deaths in 2024. The number of deaths had declined marginally from 1,555 in 2020 to 1,481 in 2021 but rose to 1,856 in 2022 and 2,161 in 2023 before peaking last year.
Uttar Pradesh emerged as the worst-affected state, accounting for more than half of all pothole-related fatalities. The state reported 5,127 deaths during the five-year period, including 1,369 in 2024 alone, up from 1,320 in 2023 and 1,030 in 2022.
Madhya Pradesh recorded the second-highest toll with 969 deaths between 2020 and 2024, including 277 last year. Tamil Nadu reported 612 deaths during the period, while Punjab recorded 414.
Zero pothole-related accidents in Andhra, Bihar, Goa
The figures, based on state police data submitted to the ministry, also showed stark variations across states. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar and Goa reported no pothole-related accidents or fatalities over the five-year period.
Overall, India recorded 23,056 pothole-related road accidents during these years, leaving 19,956 people injured. Of these, 9,670 cases involved grievous injuries.
Gadkari said that while the Centre is responsible for the development and maintenance of National Highways, state governments are responsible for roads within their respective jurisdictions. He added that the government has prioritised the maintenance of the existing National Highway network and put in place accountability mechanisms to ensure timely repairs.