Road Accidents Claim Lives Annually, Trauma Service Expansion Slow
Summary
Road accidents are claiming thousands of lives in Nepal each year, while the government’s promised expansion of trauma services along major highways has moved slowly. Health officials say new trauma centers are being approved, but implementation remains far behind the urgent need for timely accident care.
Key Points
- Nepal recorded 29,198 road accidents in fiscal year 2082/83, causing 21,007 deaths nationwide.
- The government announced highway trauma service expansion years ago, but implementation has remained slow and incomplete.
- Health Minister Nisha Mehta said trauma centers have been approved for five locations, including Lahan, Kamalamai, Devchuli, Bardaghat and Lamkichuha.
- Officials and WHO guidelines emphasize that effective trauma care requires 24-hour emergency services, trained staff, and proper infrastructure.
