Koshi Province has witnessed nearly 3,500 road accidents over the past five months of the current fiscal year, resulting in the tragic loss of 191 lives. According to the Highway Security and Traffic Management Office of Nepal Police in Itahari, 327 individuals have also been critically injured.

Motorcycle accidents were the most frequent, followed by mishaps involving tempos, jeeps, and cars, stated Rameshwor Twati, Information Officer at the Highway Security and Traffic Management Office.

The increasing number of motorcycle accidents is attributed to the lack of zebra crossings and traffic signs along the East-West Highway, which is currently being upgraded as part of the Asian Highway project. Officer Twati emphasized that reckless driving and excessive speed are major contributors to these fatal accidents.