Road accidents remain one of the most pressing public safety challenges in Nepal. Over the past five years alone, around 13,000 people have lost their lives in road accidents, while tens of thousands have suffered serious injuries. Beyond these numbers lies an immeasurable burden of grief, trauma, and economic loss borne by victims, families, and the nation. Frequent reports of major road accidents not only highlight systemic weaknesses but also damage Nepal's international image and negatively affect sectors such as tourism. Despite ongoing efforts, the persistence of accidents indicates that current interventions are neither sufficient nor effectively implemented. Road accidents do not occur randomly, they are preventable events caused by identifiable factors. With proper policy measures and strong implementation, both the frequency and severity of accidents can be significantly reduced. A key gap in Nepal's road safety framework is the absence of a fully empowered and accountable institution dedicated to road safety. While the National Road Safety Council exists, it lacks the legal authority, structure, and operational capacity to function effectively. The government must establish a strong, well-resourced, and legally backed institution that can coordinate efforts from the central to the local level. Road safety must also be elevated as a national priority. Making road safety a mandatory agenda across all levels of government will ensure sustained focus and accountability. Additionally, numerous studies and action plans have been developed following major accidents. However, their recommendations often remain unimplemented. The government must prioritise translating these findings into concrete actions and ensure proper monitoring of implementation. Effective management of vehicles and drivers is critical in reducing accidents. The process of issuing driving licenses must be transparent, strict, and merit-based. Reports of irregularities and unauthorised practices in license distribution raise serious concerns. Similarly, old and poorly maintained vehicles continue to operate across the country, many in unsafe mechanical condition. A clear policy must be enforced to phase out such vehicles after a certain lifespan. Regular vehicle inspections for faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or malfunctioning lights should be made mandatory. Driver health is another overlooked aspect. Mandatory periodic health check-ups, including vision tests, should be enforced to ensure drivers are fit for duty. Equally important is regulating working hours. Fatigue is a major contributor to accidents. Drivers should not be allowed to operate vehicles continuously for long hours without adequate rest. Strict adherence to labour laws regarding working hours and rest periods is essential. Road conditions in Nepal, especially in hilly regions, often fall below safety standards. Many roads are narrow, poorly designed, and lack essential safety features such as guardrails and proper signage. Before allowing vehicles to operate on newly constructed roads, authorities must ensure that minimum safety standards are met. Poor drainage systems often lead to water accumulation, making roads slippery and dangerous. The installation and maintenance of road safety signs, signals, and barriers must be prioritised. In many areas, these are either missing or in poor condition. Pedestrian safety also requires attention. Zebra crossings, clear markings, and proper pedestrian infrastructure can significantly reduce accidents. Strict enforcement of traffic laws is crucial. Studies indicate that a large proportion of accidents result from speeding, reckless driving, and mobile phone use while driving. Overloading of vehicles – common in both passenger and goods transport – must be strictly controlled. Practices such as carrying passengers on top of goods vehicles or exceeding seating capacity significantly increase accident risks. Public awareness campaigns should be expanded using local radio, media, and community platforms to educate citizens about road safety. While government policies and enforcement are critical, the role of transport entrepreneurs, companies, and vehicle owners is equally important in ensuring road safety. They must adopt and strictly implement safety policies within their operations. Before dispatching any vehicle, its technical condition should be thoroughly checked to ensure it is roadworthy. Only qualified, physically and mentally fit drivers should be employed. Regular health check-ups must be conducted, and unfit drivers should not be assigned duties. Transport operators must comply with regulations regarding driving hours and rest periods to prevent fatigue-related accidents. Vehicles should undergo regular maintenance and inspections, and those in poor condition must not be allowed to operate. Providing periodic training to drivers on safe driving practices is essential. Journey planning should also be done realistically, allocating sufficient time to reach destinations so that drivers are not pressured to speed. Transport entrepreneurs should actively listen to drivers' concerns and address operational issues that may compromise safety. Furthermore, vehicles should not be allowed to operate on roads that do not meet minimum safety standards. Reducing road accidents in Nepal requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach. The government must strengthen policies and institutions, ensure strict enforcement, and invest in safer infrastructure. At the same time, transport operators, drivers, and the public must fulfill their responsibilities. Preventing accidents is far more effective than dealing with their consequences. Even if accidents cannot be completely eliminated, significant reduction is achievable through committed action. Road safety must be treated as a top national priority – for the protection of lives, the well-being of society, and the sustainable development of the country. Karki is a civil engineer, currently with Khimti I Hydropower, Dolakha